KUALA KRAI, June 9 (Bernama) — Stong Geopark has the potential of being recognised as the first national geopark in Kelantan this year through the Aspiring Stong Geopark (ASG) programme as it possesses a unique geological landscape of limestone hills covered with a varied plant ecosystem.
Energy and Natural Resources Minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said the ministry has allocated RM300,000 under the Natural Resources Ecotourism Empowerment Programme towards Local Economic Development for 2022 to improve infrastructure in several geosites identified to promote the area.
“Development plans in the area will be carefully and integratedly done with the involvement of all parties, namely the federal and state agencies, local authorities, and local communities to ensure that the impact of the ASG project can be enjoyed together.
“The ASG area involves areas in Dabong, Kuala Krai, and Jeli which possess unique geological historical treasures with biological diversity, historical heritage and rich local cultural resources.”
He said this to reporters after a working visit to ASG in Dabong here today. The Minerals and Geoscience Department director-general Hisamuddin Termidi was also present,
Takiyuddin said a study that began in 2019 had identified various geological and biological heritage sites, history of rock formation, and geological features especially the fractures of a series of igneous rocks known as the Stong Complex qualified ASG to be assessed as a national geopark.
“The federal government will continue to help the Kelantan government in developing Stong as a national geopark in scientific and technical aspects as well as in awareness programmes with the community.
“Apart from this, the recognition of the national geopark will also have an impact on the country’s tourism sector and help the local community explore economic opportunities such as producing food or household products based on natural resources from this area,” he added.
For the record, there are five national geoparks in the country namely the Kinta Valley Geopark in Perak, Jerai Geopark (Kedah), Kinabalu Geopark (Sabah) and Labuan Geopark (Federal Territory of Labuan).
Source: BERNAMA News Agency