Tasik Kenyir officially designated as Kenyir Geopark

In a significant milestone for Malaysia’s tourism sector, Tasik Kenyir in the Hulu Terengganu district has been officially declared a national geopark. The area will be known as Kenyir Geopark as a result of this recognition.

The announcement was made by the National Geopark Committee, chaired by Abdul Wahid Abu Salim, the deputy secretary-general of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change.

Ariffin Deraman, the chairman of the state tourism, culture, and digital technology committee, expressed his delight, emphasizing the state government’s longstanding efforts to establish Kenyir as a geopark in alignment with the Terengganu Sejahtera Master Plan (Pitas 2030).

Kenyir Geopark as a national treasure

Ariffin praised the recognition of Kenyir Geopark as a remarkable achievement for the Terengganu state government. The journey to obtain this honour began in 2015, but it was not without its challenges.

Undeterred by these hurdles, the local authorities persisted and remained committed to realizing their vision. Ariffin highlighted the importance of Kenyir’s reassessment in 2027 to ensure the geopark’s continued status.

Ariffin, in a statement to Bernama, stated, “This recognition will not only open up new possibilities for the Tasik Kenyir tourism sector, but it will also generate diverse employment and economic opportunities for the local community.”

The Kenyir Geopark, encompassing an impressive 244,900 hectares, boasts numerous attractions, including the renowned Tasik Kenyir, 340 enchanting islands, and 15 captivating geosites. Among these sites, Bewah Cave stands out for its unique features, including the discovery of dinosaur footprints and fossils, and fascinating visitors with the prehistoric secrets they hold.

Unveiling Bewah Cave and the Ancient Bewah Man

The declaration of Kenyir Geopark has not only unveiled its natural wonders but also unearthed the extraordinary potential of Bewah Cave as a national geo-archaeological site. Within this captivating cave, researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery—the remains of Bewah Man, the oldest known skeleton found in Malaysia.

Estimated to be approximately 16,000 years old, this archaeological find offers remarkable insights into the ancient history of the country. The discovery of Bewah Man has attracted significant attention, positioning Bewah Cave as a site of great historical and cultural importance.

The presence of Bewah Cave and the discovery of its secrets will definitely inspire research and draw specialists and enthusiasts from a wide range of fields. This would encourage a deeper understanding of Malaysia’s rich history and open up new paths for archaeological study and scientific research, while also encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing between local and international experts.

Kenyir Geopark to boost tourism and economy

With its abundant natural wonders, including Tasik Kenyir, captivating islands, and the fascinating Bewah Cave, Kenyir Geopark is poised to become a premier destination for local and international tourists alike.

This recognition not only showcases the geological significance of the area but also opens up a myriad of economic opportunities for the local community. The development of Kenyir Geopark will not only create jobs but also stimulate the growth of supporting industries, such as hospitality, transportation, and eco-tourism ventures.

By attracting a larger number of visitors, the geopark will boost the local economy, generating revenue and promoting sustainable development in the region. The preservation and conservation efforts required to maintain the geopark’s natural beauty will also contribute to the overall sustainability and environmental consciousness of the area.

Local communities are set to benefit from the influx of tourists, as it will create a demand for goods and services, providing opportunities for entrepreneurship and small businesses. The cultural heritage of the region will be highlighted, allowing artisans and craftsmen to showcase their traditional crafts and products to a wider audience.

Ariffin stressed the significance of the geopark’s recognition, stating, “Kenyir Geopark will not only attract nature enthusiasts and adventurers but also researchers and scholars interested in exploring its geological and historical treasures.”

This recognition will not only enhance the region’s economic prospects but also promote the preservation and conservation of its unique geological and cultural heritage. As the geopark evolves and attracts visitors from near and far, it is expected to bring prosperity and sustainable growth to the local community, cementing Kenyir’s position as a true gem in Malaysia’s tourism landscape.