‘Tak Kenal Maka Tak Cinta’: SDUGGp exhibition highlights 360-Million-Year-Old geological treasures in Sarawak Assembly Complex

Len Talif (front row, fifth left) at the SDUGGp Exhibition at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex on May 14, 2026.

By Lian Cheng

KUCHING, May 14: “Tak kenal maka tak cinta” (you cannot love what you do not know)—this is the precise reason for Sarawak Delta UNESCO Global Geopark (SDUGGp) Gallery to be set up at Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex in conjunction with with the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Sitting, Fifth Session, which is being held over three days starting today.

Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Sarawak, Len Talif Salleh, said the Sarawak Delta UNESCO Global Geopark (SDUGGp) must first be introduced to the public so that its treasures can be better understood and appreciated, especially its ancient rocks and geological formations, some of which are estimated to be 360 million years old.

“For ordinary people, they may not understand these things. And even I myself may not fully understand because this is not my field of expertise. With a gallery like this, we hope people will better understand the values, history, and civilisation of Sarawak and Borneo. That is why the tagline for the Sarawak Delta Geopark is —Cradle of Origin,” Len told the media when launching SDUGGp Gallery.

He said a permanent gallery will later be developed at the Sarawak Science Centre.

“Once the science centre is officially launched, we will develop the gallery permanently there. Likewise, in other places such as Bau, there will also be centres or locations where people can learn about the history and stories connected to those areas.

“Along the route to Damai, there will also be places where visitors can learn about the historical significance of the surrounding areas. Each of these geosites has its own unique history. Therefore, every site will have its own narrative to explain what it is all about,” said Len.

SDUGGp was recognised as a UNESCO global geopark on April 23, 2026 and Sarawak had received the official certificate of recognition on April 27 this year.

Len said the journey of application began as early as 2001. By 2009, a comprehensive study had been conducted. It was only in 2019 that concrete actions were taken after obtaining Sarawak Cabinet’s approval, along with directives and support from the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to ensure that the Sarawak Delta Geopark would be recognised by UNESCO.

He said the recognition was an effort of many parties— especially the Museum Department, Geological Heritage Group, the Department of Minerals and Geoscience, the Forest Department, SFC, the Resident’s Office, Tourism agencies, and others.

The recognition by the UNESCO proves that the Sarawak Delta area possesses geological heritage, biodiversity, and cultural values that are unique and internationally significant. The SDUGGp covers an area of 3,112 square kilometres, encompassing Kuching, Bau, Padawan, and parts of Siburan, all of which are rich in geological history, ecosystem diversity, and the cultural heritage of local communities.

Among the main attractions highlighted are ancient rock formations, karst landscapes, wetlands, wildlife habitats, as well as the rich cultural diversity and historical heritage of local communities that have existed for generations. In addition, this UNESCO recognition opens up major opportunities for sustainable tourism development, education, scientific research, and the enhancement of the local community’s economy through direct community participation. —DayakDaily