New prospects for the state’s tourism industry following UNESCO’s recognition

NEW DELHI: The official recognition of Niah National Park Caves Complex in Miri as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Site has elevated Sarawak’s standing on the international stage.

Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said that the recognition also brings new prospects for the state’s tourism industry.

“With this recognition, it is a start of the long journey of our commitment, responsibilities and shared values in safeguarding the outstanding universal value of Niah National Park’s Caves Complex for the present and future generations to embrace.

“We have invested a lot of time to come to this inscription with the strong mandate from the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) and our Cabinet members.

Len Talif (front row, forth left) attends the 46th Unesco World Heritage Committee Meeting in India.

“On behalf of the Sarawak government, I would like to thank the Federal Ministry of Tourism Art and Culture, Department of National Heritage, Permanent Delegation of Malaysia to UNESCO in Paris and the local communities in Niah for making this journey possible,” he said in a statement.

Len Talif said the Niah National Park holds archaeological significance, particularly Niah Caves, which has some of the earliest evidence of human settlement in Southeast Asia, dating back 50,000 years ago.

“The stunning landscape, biological diversity, and cultural heritage make this site very important locally, nationally and internationally,” he said.

He also said the prestigious recognition is expected to enhance conservation efforts, promote sustainable tourism, and foster greater international cooperation in preserving the invaluable heritage of the park.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and UNESCO for this recognition,” he said.

Earlier, the recognition of Niah National Park as a world heritage site was awarded during the 46th Unesco World Heritage Committee Meeting at the Bharat Mandapam International Convention and Exhibition Centre in New Delhi, India on Saturday (July 27).

Leading the Sarawak delegation to India for the meeting was Len Talif, with the meeting being attended by over 2,000 delegates from 150 countries until July 31.