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Selangor Celebrates the Launch of Its First National Geopark
Selangor has inaugurated its first National Geopark, the Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark, spanning 112,955 hectares across Gombak and Hulu Langat, with the launch officiated by His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor at the Gua Damai Carnival.
Selangor has inaugurated its first National Geopark, the Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark, spanning 112,955 hectares across Gombak and Hulu Langat, with the launch officiated by His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor at the Gua Damai Carnival.
SELANGOR, 16 NOVEMBER 2024 — In a step toward enhancing ecotourism and preserving geological heritage, Selangor has launched its first National Geopark, the Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark, which spans 112,955 hectares across the districts of Gombak and Hulu Langat. The official inauguration ceremony took place at the Gua Damai Carnival, with His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj Ibni Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Alhaj, presiding over the event.
Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark features 31 geosites, of which 20 have been recognized as eco- and geo-tourism areas, with Selangor’s natural and geological landscapes still preserved. The initiative is spearheaded by Tourism Selangor, supported by key government and community partners, including PLAN Malaysia, the Department of Mineral and Geoscience (JMG), Kajang Municipal Council, Ampang Jaya Municipal Council, and Selayang Municipal Council. This collaborative effort underscores the state’s commitment to sustainable tourism, benefiting local communities while protecting the environment.
With aspirations for UNESCO Global Geopark recognition by 2028, the Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark aligns with international standards, preserving the area’s natural landscapes and advancing United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 15 (Life on Land) and Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
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Selangor Chief Minister Dato’ Seri Amirudin bin Shari stated that the Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark is a proud accomplishment under the Selangor First Plan, reflecting Selangor’s dedication to sustainable tourism and eco-development. The Geopark initiative enhances Selangor’s appeal as a travel destination while creating new infrastructure, job opportunities, and sustainable practices. Planned infrastructure improvements include eco-friendly tourism attractions, trails, hospitality services, and interpretive centres that deepen engagement with Selangor’s geological heritage.
Dr. Ani binti Ahmad, President of the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council, highlighted efforts to preserve the Permatang Kuarza geosite, enhancing infrastructure with signage and events like the Geopark Ampang Jaya Night Run. These initiatives attract international participants and foster conservation awareness, offering educational activities that highlight geosites, local culture, and sustainable development.
Shahman bin Jalaludin, President of the Selayang Municipal Council, noted the Geopark includes 21 geosites, 5 biosites, and 7 cultural and historical sites, including iconic locations like Batu Caves and Batu Arang. Initiatives like the Batu Arang Gallery aim to educate visitors on the region’s coal heritage. Efforts to develop eco-friendly infrastructure ensure visitor safety and preserve the environment, enriching educational and recreational experiences.
Nazli bin Md Taib, President of the Kajang Municipal Council, emphasized collaboration with local communities and businesses, ensuring economic growth benefits everyone. By building geo- and eco-tourism infrastructure, the region fosters sustainable growth.
Educational partnerships, including with Taman Melawati 2 Primary School and Batu Arang Primary School, are integral to conservation education, nurturing future environmental stewards.
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As Selangor prepares for Visit Selangor Year 2025, the Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark will be a central attraction, showcasing Selangor’s geological and natural heritage while supporting sustainable development goals and boosting tourism.
