Niah’s Unesco recognition marks an encouraging beginning, says Tourism Minister

SIBU (July 29): The recognition of Niah National Park as a Unesco World Heritage Site would attract a large number of travellers who appreciate cultural and geographical heritage, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

In stating this, federal Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister believed that this segment of tourists would be eager to witness the ‘awe-inspiring prehistoric murals and natural wonders’ in and around the Niah Caves complex.

“This recognition is undoubtedly an encouraging beginning.

“This will further elevate Sarawak’s tourism industry, injecting vitality into the local economy and benefitting our people. Together, we will honour our past, celebrate our present, and build a prosperous future

“We wish to express our gratitude to the federal agencies and the Sarawak government for their support and cooperation, which have collectively facilitated the smooth progress of this nomination (for Unesco World Heritage Site status),” he said in his Facebook post.

“Whether it is the government, the private sector, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), communities, or individuals, we must all share the responsibility to ensure that our heritage continues to be protected and passed down to future generations.

“We hope that this recognition would add significant value to the archaeological sites within the Niah National Park, establishing all of them as major tourism assets for Sarawak and stimulating the economy of the community, Sarawak, and the whole of Malaysia,” said Tiong.

Adding on, the Bintulu MP and Dudong assemblyman also said Malaysia would be nominating several more sites to be accorded the Unesco World Heritage status.

“They include the Forest Research Institute Malaysia’s Forest Park in Selangor, the Royal Belum State Park (in Perak), and the National Leprosy Control Centre (Selangor).”

Niah National Park in Miri recently became another Unesco World Heritage Site in Sarawak, after Gunung Mulu National Park.

The latest recognition was announced during the 46th Unesco World Heritage Committee Meeting, held at the Bharat Mandapam International Convention and Exhibition Centre in New Delhi, India last Saturday (July 27).