Sabah Parks receives Special Chief Minister’s Award

KOTA KINABALU (Dec 9): Sabah Parks received the Special Chief Minister’s Award at the Sabah Tourism Appreciation Night at the Sabah International Convention Centre on Saturday night.

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew who represented Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, presented the accolade to the director of Sabah Parks, Dr Maklarin Lakim.

Sabah Parks is highly recognised as “A Global Champion in Conservation, Sustainability, and Community Empowerment”.

Sabah Tourism Board (STB) states that Sabah Parks deserves recognition for its commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable development, and community engagement.

Its recent milestones underscore its position as a global leader in these critical areas.

On May 24, 2023, UNESCO elevated Sabah’s status on the world stage by designating the Kinabalu Geopark as one of 18 new UNESCO Global Geoparks.

Spanning 4,750 square kilometers across Kota Belud, Kota Marudu, and parts of Ranau, this recognition cements Sabah as the third UNESCO Triple Crown site globally, alongside Jeju Island, South Korea and Shennongjia, China.

This achievement highlights Sabah Parks’ dedication to conserving natural resources, enhancing infrastructure, and empowering local communities — an effort perfectly aligned with Sabah State’s strategic goals.

Sabah Parks has demonstrated exceptional stewardship, managing three of Sabah’s most prestigious sites recognised by UNESCO. Kinabalu Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site on December 2, 2000, highlights its biodiversity and ecological significance.

The UNESCO Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve, established on June 12, 2014, reflects Sabah Parks’ commitment to preserving ecosystems and promoting sustainable development. Most recently, the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark was designated on May 24, 2023, showcasing their role in protecting geodiversity and cultural heritage.

These accolades testify to Sabah Parks’ unwavering dedication to conservation and the global recognition of their efforts.

Present at the appreciation night were Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment cum STB chairman, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, STB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit and Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Josie Lai.

-Agency