UNESCO recognition expected to make Niah National Park magnet for cultural heritage, nature fans

Dato Sri Tiong King Sing

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 28: Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Dato Sri Tiong King Sing hopes the official induction of Niah National Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site will attract travelers who appreciate cultural heritage as well as awe-inspiring prehistoric murals and natural wonders.

In a statement today, Tiong highlighted that such recognition will further elevate Sarawak’s tourism industry, injecting vitality into the local economy and benefiting Sarawakians.

He added that together, Sarawakians will honour their past, celebrate their present, and build a prosperous future.

Tiong also revealed that Malaysia is striving to nominate several more sites for UNESCO World Heritage status. These include the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) Forest Park in Selangor, Royal Belum State Park, and the National Leprosy Control Centre.

“We (MOTAC) 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,” he shared.

Tiong said the recognition was undoubtedly an encouraging beginning.

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

“We hope such recognition will add significant value to the archaeological sites of Niah National Park, establishing it as a major tourism asset for Sarawak and stimulating the economy of the community, Sarawak, and the whole of Malaysia,” he added. — DayakDaily