KOTA BELUD: Oct 11, 2026 — The recognition of the Kinabalu Global Geopark by UNESCO must be translated into economic benefits felt by the people, especially communities around the foot of Mount Kinabalu.
Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick said the international recognition meant a lot to Sabah’s tourism industry. However, follow-up efforts must be carried out immediately to raise entrepreneurs’ incomes, create job opportunities and improve the living standards of local communities.
“Our big challenge is how this UNESCO recognition is translated and cascaded into economic activities that are felt by the people at the grassroots level,” he said.
He said this when closing Tamu Geopark Kota Belud 2026.
According to Ewon, who is also Sabah Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, Kota Belud has a unique geo-tourism advantage as it possesses a complete range of natural assets, from islands, sea, beaches, rivers, forests and hills to the majesty of Mount Kinabalu.
“We have Pulau Mantanani, the sea, beaches, Kadamaian River, Tampasuk River and Mount Kinabalu. From the mountain peak to the sea, everything is in one district,” he said.
He added that global marketing and branding strategies must be strengthened to attract more foreign tourists. The benefits should also be enjoyed by homestay operators, tour guides, food operators, handicraft makers and small traders.
He said tourists who come must enjoy the natural beauty, learn about the local community’s culture and buy products made by local residents. That way, economic benefits can be enjoyed inclusively by more members of the community.
Ewon stressed that close cooperation between the tourism ministry and his ministry was important to ensure tourism packages and local manufacturing products were developed together. Tourism is a service sector, while physical products bought by tourists such as traditional attire, parang, food and local produce drive the manufacturing sector.
UNESCO requires local communities to conserve natural treasures and respect Kinabalu’s customs and culture.
Ewon expressed appreciation for Sabah Parks’ commitment in organising the Tamu Geopark, an important annual event following its recognition as the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark (KUGGp) in 2023.
