THE LANGKAWI STORY: a Sustainable Tourism Destination

FIRST EDITION www.langkawigeopark.com.my

Tell-tale dropstones found deposited here by migrating glaciers or icebergs provided the evidence that Langkawi was once part of Gondwanaland, an ancient continent, and had moved up from the South Pole eons ago.

Another discovery, rocks in Gunung Machinchang are found embedded with fossils of trilobites, an ancient creature, that has been carbon-dated to 550 million years old making Langkawi the oldest landmass in South East Asia.

Langkawi is a geologist's treasure trove and a history book of the earth formation of the past.

~ See on Page 9-10

NEW GEOTOURISM NEW CUSTODIAN

DESTINATION Newly-appointed ~ See on Page 11 - 12 Langkawi Development Authority CEO Dato' Haji Azizan Noordin (left) and his deputy Ahmad Zaini Zaba’ai posing for a photo with Geopark expert Prof. Ibrahim Komoo (centre).

GEOPARK CONSERVATION DAY GlobalG United Nations Langkawi ~ See on Page 25 - 27 Educational, Scientiﬁc and UNESCO Cultural Organization Global Geopark CONTENTS

2 Contents 30-38 Geopark Heroes & Persanalities 3 Royal Patron Geo Groups Geopark Ambassadors 4 Message Advisor of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark Geopark Personalities Prof Emeritus Dr Ibrahim Komoo ~ FLAG (No laughing matter) ~ Dr. Herb Foreword 5 ~ Bird Man Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) ~ Bird Map Chief Executive Officer ~ Mr. Green Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin ~ Biodegradable & Trash Hero Remarks 6 Supports & Developments Deputy LADA CEO 39-41 Ahmad Zaini Zaba’ai Geopark Advisor & Aspiring Geopark Geopark and Conservation Geoparks Networks Division Manager Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari ~ Muroto ~ Dongvan 7-8 Legend Legend & Folklore 42-49 Activities & Events Legend Map Geopark-related Activities Eco-sports Tourism Langkawi 9-10 Sustainable Practice & Malaysian LANGKAWI a Sustainable Tourism Nature Society Destination Piling on LADA’s good work & Wildlife Timeline Park Langkawi 11-16 Tourism Promoted Geosites Tradition & Food Pulau Tuba Henna Painting & PATA 2018 Tanjung Mali Map of Langkawi Kubang Badak Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark celebrates 10th Anniversary 17-19 Geoforest Parks Dayang Bunting Marble 50-51 Vision for Langkawi Kilim Karst Machinchang Cambrian 52-53 Photo Gallery

20 Luxury Tourism Cover photo: Aerial view of “Pulau Tuba” 21-29 Education & Conservation Sharing Geopark knowledge NOTE: This Geopark Gazette is published by the Nature Talk Radio Show Geopark and Community Development Nurturing Geoparkian Division of the Langkawi Development Authority. Educational Cruise Fun-filled Geopark Conservation Day Kompleks LADA, P.O. Box 60, Jalan Persiaran Putra 07000 Langkawi Kedah Kampung Kilim Community Tel: 04-9600 600 Fax: 04-9600 509 Cooperative Email: [email protected] Website: www.langkawigeopark.com.my Kubang Badak River Fisherman’s Cooperative Editorial and design by A PEN Media Sdn Bhd. Feedback at [email protected]

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 2 Royal Patron CONTENTS

2 Contents 30-38 Geopark Heroes & Persanalities Royal Patron 3 Geo Groups ROYAL PATRON Geopark Ambassadors 4 Message Advisor of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark Geopark Personalities Tunku Puteri Intan Saﬁnaz Prof Emeritus Dr Ibrahim Komoo ~ FLAG (No laughing matter) T A H M ' S ~ Dr. Herb uanku bdul alim u adzam hah Foreword 5 ~ Bird Man Langkawi Development he Princess of Kedah, Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz Tuanku Authority (LADA) ~ Bird Map Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah, has graciously consented to Chief Executive Officer ~ Mr. Green Taccept the invitation from the Langkawi Development Authority Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin ~ Biodegradable & Trash Hero (LADA) to be the Royal Patron of Langkawi UNESCO Global Remarks Geopark. 6 Supports & Developments Deputy LADA CEO 39-41 Her support has raised the stature of Langkawi UNESCO "I am extremely supportive of the efforts, activities, and Ahmad Zaini Zaba’ai Geopark Advisor & Aspiring Geopark Global Geopark (LUGG) with an enviable royal status and commitment shown by the managers and stakeholders to Geopark and Conservation Geoparks Networks Division Manager her high commitment has brought a refreshing face to all accelerate the geopark development in this region. This Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari ~ Muroto important geopark events that were staged. workshop is a good example of how geopark becomes a ~ Dongvan tool for best practices in managing natural and cultural 7-8 Legend Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz, bestowed the royal title of heritage," Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz said. Legend & Folklore Temenggong Kedah, has taken a keen interest in LUGG 42-49 Activities & Events affairs and pledged her precious time to grace geopark In her speech, Tunku Puteri Intan lauded Langkawi UNESCO Legend Map Geopark-related Activities events especially this year when LUGG celebrates its 10th Global Geopark for taking the lead to share knowledge on Eco-sports Tourism anniversary. geopark governance and management and showcasing Langkawi 9-10 Sustainable Practice & Malaysian examples of activities that reflect how science is translated LANGKAWI a Sustainable Tourism Nature Society LUGG is the oldest Geopark in South East Asia. into action. Destination Piling on LADA’s good work & Wildlife Timeline Park Langkawi As a great supporter, Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz has moti- She said the sharing of knowledge has empowered local vated Geopark staff in LADA in its mission to promote and communities of Kilim and Kubang Badak mangrove areas in Tradition & Food 11-16 Tourism Promoted Geosites preserve LUGG. Recently, the princess was on hand to grace managing their geo-heritage resources as part of the Pulau Tuba Henna Painting & PATA 2018 the Second Asia Pacific Geoparks Network regional training geo-tourism initiatives that underlie how geopark helps the Tanjung Mali Map of Langkawi course and officiated at its opening. The course was held local community to reap economic benefits from geopark Kubang Badak Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark between May 8 and May 12 in Langkawi. development to uplift their quality of life and strengthen celebrates 10th Anniversary the sense of belonging. Geoforest Parks At the event where LADA Chief Executive Officer Dato Haji 17-19 Azizan Noordin, Geopark and Conservation Division Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz has also attended the inaugural Dayang Bunting Marble 50-51 Vision for Langkawi Manager Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari and 70 geopark Langkawi Classic Car Show showcasing some 50 selected Kilim Karst delegates were present, she shared her views. vintage and classic cars under one roof at the Mahsuri Machinchang Cambrian 52-53 Photo Gallery International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) in April. "This gathering is a reflection of the growing interest and 20 Luxury Tourism Cover photo: development of geoparks in the Asia Pacific region as the Langkawians will surely see more of Tunku Puteri Intan Aerial view of “Pulau Tuba” new tool for regional sustainable development. Safinaz gracing the many exciting events lined up this year 21-29 Education & Conservation to celebrate the 10th anniversary. Sharing Geopark knowledge NOTE: This Geopark Gazette is published by the Nature Talk Radio Show Geopark and Community Development Nurturing Geoparkian Division of the Langkawi Development Authority. Educational Cruise Fun-filled Geopark Conservation Day Kompleks LADA, P.O. Box 60, Jalan Persiaran Putra 07000 Langkawi Kedah Kampung Kilim Community Tel: 04-9600 600 Fax: 04-9600 509 Cooperative Email: [email protected] Website: www.langkawigeopark.com.my Kubang Badak River Fisherman’s Cooperative Editorial and design by A PEN Media Sdn Bhd. Feedback at [email protected]

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 2 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 3 Message

Advisor of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark Professor Ibrahim Komoo

angkawi UNESCO Global Geopark is a testament to the conscious L and tireless efforts undertaken by Langkawi Development Authority to preserve the natural beauty and aesthetic value of Langkawi’s geological landscape that it has been endowed with.

I see a planned roadmap that For the local people, the potential engages the local community, local for growth is tremendous in the authority and industry stakeholders coming years. The well-maintained Prof Emeritus/ Principal Fellow in preserving the natural and cultur- natural beauty of Langkawi al heritage of this archipelago of 99 UNESCO Global Geopark will attract Institute for Environment and islands. many tourists to visit and bring Development (LESTARI) UKM about economic spillovers that will The noteworthy efforts and dedica- benefit the local economy for all tion of Langkawi Development and sundry. Vice President, Authority (LADA) is commendable. Global Geoparks Network (GGN) LADA has not only met but capable By now, all of us should know that a Coordinator, of maintaining its UNESCO Global Geopark is not just about rock and Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) Geopark components in a sustain- its formation. It can be a outstand- Council, able manner. ing and thriving landscape with its UNESCO Global Geoparks Advisor, integrated biological, cultural and Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark I urge Langkawians to take owner- geological heritage that promises a ship of the UNESCO Global Geopark great future for Langkawi. status they possess. They must always remind themselves that the Here’s where this Geopark Gazette UNESCO status is coveted because can be helpful to disseminate infor- the aim of a geopark is about mation about the significance of promoting sustainable develop- the endorsement of UNESCO that United Nations Langkawi Educational, Scientiﬁc and UNESCO ment of the region by preserving recognises Langkawi as the first Cultural Organization Global Geopark valuable geological heritages and Southeast Asia global geopark. making use of them in education, science and tourism. This e-magazine can play a mean- ingful role in educating and Within the 478sq kilometer of land promoting the merits of sustainable in Langkawi, which is established as practices to preserve a Global the oldest landmass in Malaysia, are Geopark as a legacy for the younger found more then 90 geosites of generations to come. outstanding values that require protection and can be used for tourism products. Currently, only three geoforest parks have been fully developed, namely Machin- chang Cambrian, Kilim Karst and Dayang Bunting Marble.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 4 Foreword Langkawi Development Authority Chief Executive Oﬃcer Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin

Implicit in this is the responsibility to pass on messages to the audience, which is the local residents and angkawi is an island stakeholders such as LADA itself, the L paradise that has earned Federal and State Government and its stripes as one of the world’s more importantly, tourism players. best beach destinations. The gazette will serve as a market place for the exchange of ideas that In the days to come, this archi- will seek to achieve two objectives; to pelago of 99 islands will attain improve ranking of Langkawi as a yet another accolade as a world tourism destination and to luxury travel destination and sustain its status as a Global Geopark. take its rightful place on the world tourism map. I am well aware of the remarkable achievement Langkawi has made and Vogue Magazine has listed Langkawi the progress that this Global Geopark, as the 3rd hottest tourism destina- the first in Malaysia and Southeast tion for this year. It is a highly rated Asia, is heading. international magazine that defines the culture of fashion and lifestyle for Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark is, a global audience. Through these collaborations, I hope to get more high-end tourists from for me, a key success in marketing Langkawi. Langkawi has come under the maga- Europe, United States, Australia and zine editor’s purview after two New Zealand. Apart from such scheduled flights, LADA has intensified its The slew of attractions such as new famous brands; St Regis and Ritz bio-geo features and geo-trails will Carlton landed in Langkawi. St Regis promotion of chartered flights to Langkawi. attract more tourists to visit our 99 is a luxury 5-star resort with 85 suites enchanting and magical islands. and 4 over-water villas that has since Langkawi will also leverage on its its opening on 6 April 2016 won billing as a renowned ecotourism destination to attract big corpora- Every success story has its humble many coveted international awards beginning and here I would to and accolades. tions to use the island for international meetings, incentives, conventions commend my predecessors for the and exhibitions (MICE). There are a achievements that has made this The other is Ritz Carlton Resort with beloved island of ours what it is today. 90-room, 30-villa property with a number of 5 and 6-star rated hotels to destination spa and slated to open accommodate large-scale meetings, seminars and conferences. I am confident that Langkawi’s later this year. The plan is to turn standing will soar like the Brahminy Langkawi into the preferred island To intensify tourism promotion Kite eagle, the iconic emblem of the resort that will be the playground of legendary island of Langkawi, guard- the rich and fabulous. overseas, LADA will utilize social media platforms to help publicise ing the sky above. In this respect, the thrust of the Lang- and promote Langkawi especially its UNESCO Global Geopark status. With the niche advantage of Global kawi Tourism Blueprint 2.0 for Geopark status, Langkawi at the 2016-2020 period will be skewed The publication of the e-magazine, north-west tip of Peninsular Malaysia towards turning Langkawi into a has gained international recognition high-end tourism destination. Geopark Gazette, is timely to showcase Langkawi as a dynamic and not just as a paradise island but a living geopark to the world. choice destination for MICE and luxury In line with this is the plan to tap the travel. potential of bringing in more tourists to Langkawi through joint collabora- While the role of the gazette is as a chronicler of the achievements of A sustainable geopark, like ours, is tion between Tourism Malaysia and eco-friendly, green and responsible. several leading global airlines such Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark, its main role should be as a medium as Etihad Airways, Emirates Airlines, This is our Naturally Langkawi! Qatar Airways and Singapore of communication. Airlines. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 5 Remarks

Deputy Chief Executive Oﬃcer Langkawi Development Authority - Ahmad Zaini Zaba'ai Welcome to Naturally Langkawi the oldest land in Malaysia.

Langkawi is drawing tourists from far It is our vision to turn the island into an and near because of the sun, sea and irresistible eco-tourism destination that sand and also the unique rock forma- will be in your bucket’s list of places to shopping outlets for duty-free shop- tions and the billion-year old visit. ping in Langkawi. drop-stones that have been discovered here. Rated as the top 10 tourist destinations The publication of the Geopark Gazette, in the world, Langkawi has world-class an e-magazine, fills the void in convey- Comparatively, it is the most accessible tourist products for tourists to take part ing relevant information of tourism UNESCO Global Geopark to visit, simply in, namely enchanting island-hopping attractions in the global geopark to because the geopark covers the whole cruises, thrilling ride on the steepest tourists and also tourism stakeholders. archipelago of 99 islands. Langkawi is cable car and exhilarating walk on a the 52nd UNESCO Global Geopark in the hanging sky bridge, which is the first of The e-magazine is easily available world apart from being the first in its kind in the world. online. In this digital IT age, it is a more Southeast Asia. Today, the number has pervasive way to capture the eyeballs doubled to 120 UNESCO Global The rich history and culture and, of of Gen Y, the future generation. Geoparks in 33 countries. course, its traditional food are waiting to whet your curiosity. The eco-tourism The articles featured within are good As the governing authority, Langkawi attractions and geological marvels are reading providing insights into the Development Authority is doing its what make Langkawi a preferred many aspects of Langkawi UNESCO utmost to ensure easy connectivity by tropical paradise. Global Geopark including its unique air and sea that will bring in more cuisine, culture and history. tourists to visit to enjoy the island’s Tourists now have over 200 hotels to pristine beaches and geoforests. stay in, 50 attractions to enjoy and 100 Happy reading! Naturally Langkawi!

Geopark and Community Development Division Manager Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari his Geopark Gazette aims to serve as a conduit for the flow Tand exchange of information on all things Geopark.

The inaugural issue chronicles the signif- The gazette has separate sections for It also covers the plans by LADA to icant tourism activities that have easy reference; for example, information bring in more tourists to Langkawi happened in Langkawi, provides a list of on new geo-sites such as Kubang Badak by targeting different market what’s coming up in the coming months and Pulau Tuba and their eco-tourism segments such as MICE, eco-tourism and serve as a guide for visitors wanting attractions, and another on the commu- and luxury travel. to know more. nity’s engagement to conserve its geopark heritage as well as involvement This e-magazine is available for Many a tourist has often requested to be in sustainable development that download at www.langkawi- taken to a geopark shortly after they enhances their livelihood. geopark.com.my and Facebook arrived in Langkawi. Their faces beamed @langkawiglobalgeopark. up with a look of amazement when told This gazette hopes to serve as a that they were already in the Langkawi platform to bridge the gap in informa- Naturally Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark the moment tion on Geopark for our visitors and also they stepped onto the tarmac at the for the sharing of ideas from stakehold- Langkawi International Airport. ers such as tourism players, the local community and the local authorities.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 6 Advisor

Legend & Folklore Remarks MAHSURI A LEGEND Deputy Chief Executive Oﬃcer and the burnt rice, a true story Langkawi Development Authority - Ahmad Zaini Zaba'ai THE LEGEND Welcome to Naturally Langkawi the oldest land in Malaysia. In the late 18th century, a beauty of Siamese descent named Mahsuri lived on a northern island called Langkawi off the Malay Peninsular. Langkawi is drawing tourists from far It is our vision to turn the island into an She was falsely accused of being unfaithful to her Malay warrior husband. and near because of the sun, sea and irresistible eco-tourism destination that She was innocent, a victim of jealousy; but nobody believed her, she was sand and also the unique rock forma- will be in your bucket’s list of places to shopping outlets for duty-free shop- then tied to a tree and was to die by stabbing as punishment. tions and the billion-year old visit. ping in Langkawi. drop-stones that have been discovered But magically, nothing could pierce her flesh. She then revealed that only her here. Rated as the top 10 tourist destinations The publication of the Geopark Gazette, family dagger or 'keris', could harm her. So when the keris pierced her, she in the world, Langkawi has world-class an e-magazine, fills the void in convey- bled white blood - the proof of her innocence. Comparatively, it is the most accessible tourist products for tourists to take part ing relevant information of tourism UNESCO Global Geopark to visit, simply in, namely enchanting island-hopping attractions in the global geopark to Before her last breath, Mahsuri cursed Langkawi with bad luck for seven because the geopark covers the whole cruises, thrilling ride on the steepest tourists and also tourism stakeholders. generations. Since then, the island saw calamity after calamity. Crops failed archipelago of 99 islands. Langkawi is cable car and exhilarating walk on a and the island was attacked by forces from the neighbouring Kingdom of the 52nd UNESCO Global Geopark in the hanging sky bridge, which is the first of The e-magazine is easily available Siam for many decades. world apart from being the first in its kind in the world. online. In this digital IT age, it is a more Southeast Asia. Today, the number has pervasive way to capture the eyeballs doubled to 120 UNESCO Global The rich history and culture and, of of Gen Y, the future generation. Geoparks in 33 countries. course, its traditional food are waiting to whet your curiosity. The eco-tourism The articles featured within are good THE CURSE ENDS As the governing authority, Langkawi attractions and geological marvels are reading providing insights into the Development Authority is doing its what make Langkawi a preferred many aspects of Langkawi UNESCO Only in the late 20th century, after the utmost to ensure easy connectivity by tropical paradise. Global Geopark including its unique "cursed" seven generations had air and sea that will bring in more cuisine, culture and history. supposedly passed, Langkawi's fate tourists to visit to enjoy the island’s Tourists now have over 200 hotels to began to take a positive turn. It began pristine beaches and geoforests. stay in, 50 attractions to enjoy and 100 Happy reading! Naturally Langkawi! to grow and flourish as a tourist destination.

For years following that, the Mahsuri legend, the Burnt Rice and Langkawi's Geopark and Community Development natural beauty like its beaches were the main selling point for the island's Division Manager tourism.The duty-free status since Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari 1987 also attracted visitors for shopping sprees to buy cheaper chocolates, his Geopark Gazette aims to serve as a conduit for the flow kitchenware and liquor. Tand exchange of information on all things Geopark. TRUE EVENT In another version of the burnt rice Today, Langkawi - still a land of legend story, it was the Siamese who burned The inaugural issue chronicles the signif- The gazette has separate sections for It also covers the plans by LADA to When a battle broke out at the Pancur and folklore - is known throughout the the rice.The local villagers had hidden world as Southeast Asia's first UNESCO icant tourism activities that have easy reference; for example, information bring in more tourists to Langkawi Straits in 1821, Langkawi's army chief their paddy harvest in an underground happened in Langkawi, provides a list of on new geo-sites such as Kubang Badak by targeting different market Dato Kemboja knew that the Siamese Global Geopark, a site where prehistor- cellar and poisoned wells to kill the ic earth movements gave birth to what’s coming up in the coming months and Pulau Tuba and their eco-tourism segments such as MICE, eco-tourism would capture the island, so he sent a invaders. and serve as a guide for visitors wanting attractions, and another on the commu- and luxury travel. messenger to Padang Matsirat - Malaysia and where nature thrives together with the local community. to know more. nity’s engagement to conserve its Langkawi's main rice growing district - In retaliation, the Siamese razed the geopark heritage as well as involvement This e-magazine is available for to tell villagers to collect their paddy village, burning everything including Mahsuri's tomb is located at Jalan Many a tourist has often requested to be in sustainable development that download at www.langkawi- harvest and burn them. the underground cellar. taken to a geopark shortly after they enhances their livelihood. geopark.com.my and Facebook Makam Mahsuri, Kampung Mawat, arrived in Langkawi. Their faces beamed @langkawiglobalgeopark. The villagers gathered their harvest in Mukim Ulu Melaka. It is about 17km Until today, people can still find traces from the International Airport at up with a look of amazement when told This gazette hopes to serve as a Kampung Raja, threw all the paddy of the burnt rice in Padang Matsirat in that they were already in the Langkawi platform to bridge the gap in informa- Naturally Langkawi into a pit dug in a field and burned Padang Matsirat and takes about 20 the compound of the home of Ku minutes by car from the airport. UNESCO Global Geopark the moment tion on Geopark for our visitors and also everything so the invading army will Halim Ku Hassan.The pit is no longer they stepped onto the tarmac at the for the sharing of ideas from stakehold- have no source of food. It was meant to there but there is a sign reading "Beras Beras Terbakar is in Kampung Raja in Langkawi International Airport. ers such as tourism players, the local thwart the Siamese invasion but Terbakar" (burnt rice) that indicates community and the local authorities. Langkawi still fell to Siam. Padang Matsirat, also about 17km from where it was. Kuah town. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 6 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 7 Legend Map

Clash of the Two Mountains

Once upon a time, two mythical giants Mat Chincang and Mat Raya had a fight at their children's wedding reception. Mat Raya was angry when he caught Mat Chin- cang's son, who was marrying his daughter, looking at other women during the wedding.

This led the two in-laws to quarrel and threw a pan ('periuk') and a pot ('belanga') at each other, spilling gravy all over the floor.

A third giant Mat Sawar intervened to stop the fight, and the two fathers then realised their mistake and felt ashamed. To make up for their mistake, they turned into mountains.

Mat Chincang became Gunung (Mount) Machincang, a sandstone mountain that exhibits peculiar 'scars' as if it was 'chopped'. The word for 'chop' in Malay is 'cincang' The aftermath of the clash between the two giants also and as the old story goes, the scars were the result of formed the basis of names given to other places on Mat Chincang's fight with Mat Raya. Langkawi.

Mat Raya became Gunung Raya, the highest peak on The land where the pot fell and broke became Langkawi at 881m above sea level. Kampung Belanga Pecah, which literally means village of the broken pot. Mat Sawar became a hill called Bukit Sawar that stands between Machincang in the western part of Langkawi The place where the gravy had spilled over came to be and Gunung Raya that is almost in the centre of the known as 'Kuah', which is the name of the island's town, island, playing peacekeeper for all eternity. while the name 'Kisap' was given to the location where the ground absorbed the gravy.

Interestingly, the place where the wedding ring fell during the commotion was named 'Tanjung Cincin' (Cape of the Ring).

Langkawi is a Land of Myth and Legends. Its beautiful natural landscape and attractions come with stories of mythical beings and magic.

The most arresting of all tales is Kuah Princess Mahsuri and the Seven Generations of Curse she laid on Langkawi after being condemned to death for adultery although innocent.

Today, as an UNESCO Global Geopark, Langkawi has other bio-geo heritage stories to tell.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 8 Legend Map Langkawi

Clash of the Two Mountains

Once upon a time, two mythical giants Mat The Langkawi Story: Chincang and Mat Raya had a fight at their children's wedding reception. A SUSTAINABLE Mat Raya was angry when he caught Mat Chin- cang's son, who was marrying his daughter, looking at other women during the wedding. TOURISM

This led the two in-laws to quarrel and threw a pan DESTINATION ('periuk') and a pot ('belanga') at each other, spilling gravy all over the floor. Tell-tale dropstones found deposited here by migrating A third giant Mat Sawar intervened to stop the fight, and glaciers or icebergs provided the two fathers then realised their mistake and felt ashamed. To make up for their mistake, they turned into the evidence that Langkawi mountains. was once part of Gondwana- land, an ancient continent, Mat Chincang became Gunung (Mount) Machincang, a and had moved up from the sandstone mountain that exhibits peculiar 'scars' as if it South Pole eons ago. was 'chopped'. The word for 'chop' in Malay is 'cincang' The aftermath of the clash between the two giants also and as the old story goes, the scars were the result of formed the basis of names given to other places on Mat Chincang's fight with Mat Raya. Langkawi. nother discovery, rocks in Gunung Machinchang An awakening of interest spiked after the successes A are found embedded with fossils of trilobites, an of many Global Geoparks in China within the past 10 Mat Raya became Gunung Raya, the highest peak on The land where the pot fell and broke became ancient creature, that has been carbon-dated to 550 years attracting over six million visitors yearly and Langkawi at 881m above sea level. Kampung Belanga Pecah, which literally means village million years old making Langkawi the oldest generating about RM300 million in annual revenue of the broken pot. landmass in South East Asia. each. Mat Sawar became a hill called Bukit Sawar that stands between Machincang in the western part of Langkawi The place where the gravy had spilled over came to be Langkawi is a geologist's treasure trove and a Prof Ibrahim recalled an incident where a dozen and Gunung Raya that is almost in the centre of the known as 'Kuah', which is the name of the island's town, history book of the earth formation of the past. Chinese experts had gathered around him with island, playing peacekeeper for all eternity. while the name 'Kisap' was given to the location where many questions on how to seek geopark recognition Concerted efforts have been undertaken to the ground absorbed the gravy. after his talk during the Earth Summit in Rio de conserve Langkawi, a UNESCO Global Geopark, and Janeiro a decade ago. Today, China has over 100 to turn this island into a sustainable tourism destina- Interestingly, the place where the national Geoparks and among them 35 have gone tion. wedding ring fell during the on to attain UNESCO Global Geopark status. commotion was named 'Tanjung Geopark is not just about rock formations. It Model Geopark Cincin' (Cape of the Ring). includes the living local community that is engaged in sustainable development. Community involve- Langkawi is highly regarded as a ‘model geopark’ on Langkawi is a Land of Myth and ment in the opening of geo-trail within a geopark is how the geopark is best managed under the aegis Legends. Its beautiful natural the key element of a thriving and living geopark. of Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) after landscape and attractions come New geo-trail will attract visitors to come and turn the latter’s success in securing the second renewal with stories of mythical beings the whole geopark into a sustainable tourism of its geopark status in 2015. and magic. destination. The most arresting of all tales is Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands at the Kuah Princess Mahsuri and the Seven northwest tip of Peninsular Malaysia, is the first Generations of Curse she laid on UNESCO Global Geopark in Southeast Asia. It is a Langkawi after being condemned unique showcase of geological significance that for to death for adultery although geologists Langkawi has become a must-visit field innocent. location. Today, as an UNESCO Global “Langkawi is much like Mecca for a geologist. One Geopark, Langkawi has other can never call himself a geologist if he had not bio-geo heritage stories to tell. studied the rocks in Langkawi,” so says Professor Emeritus Ibrahim Komoo, the Vice Chair of UNESCO Global Geoparks Networks. Geopark is the current tourism buzzword and fast becoming the embodiment of ecotourism the world over. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 8 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 9 Langkawi Tourism Promoted Geosites

A living geopark is seen in the involvement of the local "We have taught others how to set up geoparks because community. Their active participation is seen in the Langkawi is the first geopark in South East Asia in 2006. numerous economic activities they indulged in that have Japan, Indonesia, Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam came to us enhanced their livelihood. to study how to prepare their submissions to UNESCO. PULAU LADA has set up a Geopark and Conservation Division to "We were the teacher. Even today, people still consult us,” manage the geopark in 2007 the year it secured geopark said Datuk Kamarulzaman Abdul Ghani, the former LADA status. It is adequately funded, as LADA is a statutory body general manager to whom Prof Ibrahim presented his with annual allocation provided by the Federal Govern- proposal to set up Langkawi Geopark. TUBA ment. His passion for Langkawi Geopark prompted him to set up ulau Tuba - Langkawi's third a non-governmental organisation called Friends of The immense contribution of Prof Ibrahim has been largest island located 5km and Langkawi Geopark (FLAG) in 2013. FLAG serves as a P acknowledged in his appointment as the advisor of 20 minutes by boat from Kuah - is Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark for five years until watchdog and also support the efforts of LADA in conserving the geopark in 2013. home to a sleepy traditional 2019. Under his stewardship, the management of the fishing village with a population geopark here is in good hands. The role it played in promoting Geopark conservation of about 4,000. complemented LADA’s own initiatives. UNESCO inspectors How it all started who visited in August 2015 were satisfied with the efforts Today, the island is transforming put in by LADA in implementing sustainable development Prof Ibrahim’s research was instrumental in Langkawi into a new tourist destination with that engages the local community and other stakeholders. succeeding to obtain the geopark status a decade ago. its own unique attractions. Limestones bedrocks and tell-tale rock formations The inspectors were impressed. LADA passed its litmus The milestone year was 2006 when the Kedah Govern- test, securing the second renewal of the Langkawi Among them are the Wang Buloh bedrocks and tell-tale rock forma- ment officially set up Langkawi Geopark. A year later in UNESCO Global Geopark status which is valid for another Cave where visitors will find tions caused by tectonic earth 2007, Langkawi Geopark was accepted into the Global four years until 2019. stalagmites and stalactites of movements, and wetlands. Geoparks Network. Subsequently, other countries looking curious shapes like one that has to establish their own geoparks consulted Langkawi to Geopark Reference Centre been dubbed the 'Praying Man' for The Bat Cave, or Gua Kelawar on the learn how things are done. resembling a person praying. island also showcases limestone In 2015, UNESCO agreed to make Langkawi a Geopark formations. Its cave walls also Reference Centre for Southeast Asia to assist other foreign To Buddhists, this stalagmite looks 'exhibit' ancient oyster shells that groups from South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia like the Goddess of Mercy or Kuan are embedded in them. wanting to create geoparks in their respective countries. Yin. The Geopark Reference Centre would function by provid- These features at various geosites ing training at the Langkawi Research Centre or via "We were having a clean-up on the island make great scenic exposure trips for geopark aspiring groups. programme on the island once locations for visitors to take photo- when we saw five buses taking graphs while they enjoy their To promote tourism, LADA is planning to develop a people to the cave. We saw visitors serene surroundings. praying to the rock formation," Geopark Discovery Centre for locals and tourists to get to Wang Buloh Cave with ‘Praying Man’ or know more of what a Geopark stands for. ‘Goddess of Mercy’ stalagmites. Geopark ranger Zamzuri Ramli says. Another beautiful location is an inland lake that is the roosting UNESCO Global Geopark inspectors – Pablo Rivas Palomo from Another bigger plan is the move to make Langkawi the "We were taken aback too. Then we place for migrating egrets. The Spain and Pasquale Li Puma (Italy) - visited Langkawi for the heard that the figure also looks like place makes a great picnic spot. second evaluation exercise in August 2015. country’s first low-carbon island by 2030. the figure of Kuan Yin.” For the fit and adventurous, the Timeline of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark For those interested in geology, peak of Pulau Tuba can be reached Pulau Tuba features limestone by hiking. The climb takes only 90 At a UNESCO General Conference held in Paris, it was minutes. announced that Langkawi Global University research Establishment of Renewal of Recognition Geopark becomes an oﬃcial Kedah State and studies of Langkawi of Langkawi Global programme under UNESCO. Government established Langkawi’s Development Geopark for four years Visit of UNESCO Global Thus, Langkawi will become Langkawi as a Geopark geological heritage Authority valid until 2015 Geopark Inspectors Langkawi UNESCO Global

1970 1987 1990 2001 2006 2007 2011 2012 2015 (Aug) 2015 (Sep) 2015 (Nov) 2016

Langkawi declared a Proposal to make Langkawi Geopark Launching of the Langkawi Langkawi secured the Launching of new Duty-Free Island Langkawi a Geopark inscribed a member of the Tourism Blueprint and Second Renewal of its logo of Langkawi to Kedah State Global Geopark Network Empowering Langkawi membership in Global UNESCO Global Government for four years valid until Global Geopark under Geoparks Network for Geopark 2011 Geopark Iconic Initiative another four years valid from 2016 to 2019

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 10 Tuba Fisherman Jetty - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 11 Langkawi Tourism Promoted Geosites

1970 1987 1990 2001 2006 2007 2011 2012 2015 (Aug) 2015 (Sep) 2015 (Nov) 2016

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 10 Tuba Fisherman Jetty - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 11 Tourism Promoted Geosites

Tuba Trail Run For long distance runners, the island is also becoming the sports venue. Pulau Tuba hosted the inaugural 2016 Tuba Trail Run that went for 30km in April.

Not fully-developed, Pulau Tuba also gives visitors the chance to see how the small island community go about their simple lives in their humble 'virgin village' and co-exist harmoni- ously with the local wildlife and natural environment.

The locals still rely on the sea for their livelihoods. They also farm and go into the forest to collect herbs, wild fruits, wax and honey. The women are skilled in weaving with pandan and coconut leaves.

As tourism in Langkawi grows, locals and entrepreneurs from outside Langkawi are seeing the potential of making Pulau Tuba a new destination for visitors.

Infrastructures are being improved and there are now homestay programmes offered by locals and hotels like Nadias Hotel that recently View of Pulau Tuba built its new property

Nadias Villa on the island, 'Unjam-unjam' and fishing giving high-end tourists a from a platform. private beachfront getaway on Pantai Pasir Panjang; and the During the low tide, mollacses Tuba Beach Resort. and a type of sea cucumber called 'beronok' can be found The resort next to the longest in the shallow waters of Batu fishermen's jetty in Kedah Reban. Locals make a special Weaving workshop for local folks offers guests a spectacular kerabu (salad) by mixing the view of the open sea, the bronok with other ingredients. sunrise, activities like fishing and hunting for shellfish and Visitors can also catch hermit crabs, kayaking and bicycling. crabs under trees, in bushes or the seabed; go jungle-trekking In a moonless night, visitors and watch eagles, otters and can try squid scooping, oyster monitor lizards. Firefly watch- picking. Anglers can choose ing is an activity to enjoy by between fishing in open waters night. at hidden fishing sites like

Pulau Tuba Jetty - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 12 Tourism Promoted Geosites

everal drop stones as small as a Sclenched fist and boulders that were embedded in sedimentary rocks are recent findings of geological significance in Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark.

The location of the drop stones is marked by signboards; one at The Cliff Restaurant and another on the other side of the cape.

The immediate area on the high tide part of rocks near the sea is a protected area. LADA Geopark and Conservation Division is encouraging a developer building a resort nearby the drop stones to take up ownership as joint stakeholders from the private sector in preserving the important findings.

TANJUNG These drop stones in Tanjung Mali show the significance of Langkawi in our earth's history. These drop stones are 1 billion years old and MALI showed Langkawi is the oldest landmass in Malaysia.

To the uninitiated, these findings are nothing more than rocks by the THE CAPE sea. You bet you won’t be able to identify them at all until they are THAT HOLDS pointed out to you. To geologists, they are definitely a MALAYSIA’S wonder. To those who appreciate natural beauty and geological heritage, it is reason enough to EARTH HISTORY preserve and protect Tanjung Mali and its geological heritage as part of our country’s legacy.

1 billion years old drop stone - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 13 Tourism Promoted Geosites Tourism Promoted Geosites S angrove swamps, old charcoal mangrove swamps and mudflats in M kiln ruins, fossil finds, a bat cave front, the limestone karst of Kilim on and eagles - the White-Bellied Sea the left and the captivating Machin- Eagle and Brahminy Kite - and chang Cambrian Geoforest Park on undersea geysers are among the 13 the right. geo-trails there. On nearby The name of this Kubang Badak is being Jemuruk Island is geosite is a promoted as a new bio found fossils of misnomer - a geosite in Langkawi and a million-year old watering hole for new discovery that holds the trilobites, a hippo where none fossilised extinct is found anywhere key to unlocking the full marine arthropod; near - and herein potential of the island for Dangli Island with lies its allure. high-end tourists. its rich marine life and corals; and This place has a unique cultural Tanjung Buta with mudflats, white community - Siamese villagers who quartz and trails for nature-lovers. once produced charcoals from the abundant supply of mangrove with Near to the limestone karst is the now abandoned kilns - and bio-geo Pinang Cave that stinks with guano features that set it apart from the from discharges from the thousands other geo-sites within the larger of fruit bats hanging inside and Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. tell-tale signs of a 1.5-metre thick layer of seashells and clams that At its river mouth, visitors on a boat showed the level of the sea was can take in the panoramic view of once 20 metres down. the 490 hectare Kubang Badak

Pinang Cave with 1.5m thick layer of seashells and clams

KUBANG BADAK AN EXCITING GEOSITE

13 amazing trails @ bio-geosite

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 14 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 15 Tourism Promoted Geosites

angrove swamps, old charcoal mangrove swamps and mudflats in M kiln ruins, fossil finds, a bat cave front, the limestone karst of Kilim on and eagles - the White-Bellied Sea the left and the captivating Machin- Eagle and Brahminy Kite - and chang Cambrian Geoforest Park on undersea geysers are among the 13 the right. geo-trails there. On nearby The name of this Kubang Badak is being Jemuruk Island is geosite is a promoted as a new bio found fossils of misnomer - a geosite in Langkawi and a million-year old watering hole for new discovery that holds the trilobites, a hippo where none fossilised extinct is found anywhere key to unlocking the full marine arthropod; near - and herein potential of the island for Dangli Island with lies its allure. high-end tourists. its rich marine life and corals; and This place has a unique cultural Tanjung Buta with mudflats, white community - Siamese villagers who quartz and trails for nature-lovers. once produced charcoals from the abundant supply of mangrove with Near to the limestone karst is the now abandoned kilns - and bio-geo Pinang Cave that stinks with guano features that set it apart from the from discharges from the thousands other geo-sites within the larger of fruit bats hanging inside and Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. tell-tale signs of a 1.5-metre thick layer of seashells and clams that At its river mouth, visitors on a boat showed the level of the sea was can take in the panoramic view of once 20 metres down. the 490 hectare Kubang Badak

Pinang Cave with 1.5m thick layer of seashells and clams

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 15 Tourism Promoted Geosites

More on biodiversity are the small Fiddler Crabs on the river banks and abandoned charcoal kilns that were large enough to hold over 1,000 sticks at one time. With its bio-geo heritage and cultural attractions, Kubang Badak is perhaps the perfect choice as a high-end tourist destination that is actively being promoted by the Langkawi Development Authority. To visit the geosite, look out for the big arch on the roadside that leads into the Kubang Badak fishermen's jetty off Jalan Teluk Yu. It is about 30 minutes from Kuah or Pantai Cenang on the opposite direction. Kubang Badak Arch

Kubang Badak Fisherman’s Jetty

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 16 Tourism Promoted Geosites Geoforest Parks

DAYANG BUNTING

MARBLE Since then, villagers believed that the Other geosites include Pulau Ular GEOFOREST PARK fresh water lake was blessed by (Snake Island), where the rare sand Mambang Sari and contained mangrove (Rhizophora Stylosa) tree magical healing properties that grows; Pulau Lima and Pulau Dua, could make barren women, who where ancient limestone rocks More on biodiversity are the small Fiddler Crabs on The 44sq km Dayang Bunting drank from it, fertile. emerged from the sea with caverns the river banks and abandoned charcoal kilns that Marble Geoforest Park is made up filled with stalactites. were large enough to hold over 1,000 sticks at one of Pulau Dayang Bunting or Island The lake, created when underground time. of the Pregnant Maiden, and Pulau caves collapsed and separated from The Setul formation limestone Wang With its bio-geo heritage and cultural attractions, Tuba.With a name like that in the sea by just a thin strip of rocks, is Buluh Cave on Pulau Tuba, which is Kubang Badak is perhaps the perfect choice as a Langkawi, it only means the island in the centre of the island and part of the geoforest park, is another high-end tourist destination that is actively being located south of the main island surrounded by tropical rainforests. It interesting geosite. It has uniquely promoted by the Langkawi Development Authority. has a legend of its own. is said that from an angle, the hills shaped stalactites like one dubbed that form the backdrop of the lake 'Praying Man' because it looks like a To visit the geosite, look out for the big arch on the look like the silhouette of a pregnant person praying. Buddhists say it looks roadside that leads into the Kubang Badak fishermen's his one is a fairy tale that tells of woman lying on her back. like the Goddess of Mercy. jetty off Jalan Teluk Yu. It is about 30 minutes from T the love and tragedy of Mat Teja, Kuah or Pantai Cenang on the opposite direction. the genie; and his wife Mambang Fairy tale aside, the Dayang Bunting Kubang Badak Arch Sari, the beautiful sprite. Marble Geoforest Park is made largely of Permian marble overthrust- Mat Teja fell in love with Mambang ed by the older Setul formation Sari when he saw her frolic at the limestone.These fine marbles were Teluk Lawak cove.Worried that formed out of limestones, following Mambang Sari would not return his the changes of climate and pressure affections, he used magic - wiping his over hundreds of millions of years. face with the tears of a mermaid - and the sprite fell for him immediate- The geoforest park also has Pulau A couple of tourists enjoying the ly. Tepor with its dropstones of a billion scenic Dayang Bunting lake while years old. Dropstones are isolated pedaling on a boat to move around. The couple married and soon rocks geologically different from expected a child. During her preg- their surroundings, meaning they nancy, Mambang Sari visited the lake were carried from a distant area and Kubang Badak now known as Tasik Dayang Bunting then dropped in place by a melting Fisherman’s Jetty (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden). She glacier or iceberg.This also means soon gave birth to a son but the baby the land that created Langkawi was died seven days later. once very close to the ancient Great Continent of Gondwanaland that was In her grief, Mambang Sari laid her near the South Pole. dead child to rest in the deep lake. It is believed that the baby then turned Pulau Tepor also has a into a white crocodile that protected crescent-shaped bay believed to be Tourists while island hopping on a the lake and would only appear to the result of a meteorite crash some boat at Pulau Dayang Bunting greeted by Brahminy Kite eagles, the people who were pure of heart. 10 million years ago. iconic symbol of Langkawi.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 16 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 17 Geoforest Parks Geoforest Parks Kilim Karst Machinchang Cambrian GEOFOREST PARK GEOFOREST PARK

he Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park T in northwestern Langkawi is the 43sq km home of the 550 million-year-old Machinchang Formation, the oldest rock formation in South- east Asia that gives the island one of its most beautiful landscapes.

It is home to Mount Machinchang, the second highest peak on Langkawi at 700m above sea level.

According to legend, the mountain was trans- formed from the giant Mat Chinchang after he regretted his fight with his in-law, Mat Raya, SkyCab cable car station on top of Mount Machinchang. he 83sq km Kilim Karst Geoforest Park at the northeastern part of who also turned himself into a mountain TLangkawi is home to the oldest limestone formation in Malaysia. named Mount Raya out of remorse.

Among its most notable features are the beautiful vertical and Legend has it that Machinchang looks like a surrounded limestone hills. Some look like pinnacles rising above the "chopped up" mountain because of the injuries dense mangrove forest - a result of erosion over millions of years. Mat Chinchang suffered in his quarrel with Mat Raya, but geologists tell a different story.

It is due to the resistance of the rocks against tectonic deformation that the There are also important geosites in of insect-eating bats but what make Kilim is not without attractions ancient sandstone mountain, which rose from the sea hundreds of millions of this area.The highest sea level found it a geosite are the 5,000-year-old buried deep in myths and legends years ago, looks like it was chopped up. in Southeast Asia is here at Teluk Cina seashells embedded in its walls.This like many other places in Langkawi. Mati (Cape of Dead Chinese) on indicates that the cave was once At Tanjung Rhu, it has the sea-facing The geoforest park has important geosites - Teluk Datai, where the oldest grains Pulau Tanjung Dendang, indicated by underwater. Cave of Stories (Gua Cherita) with of sand are found; Pantai Pasir Tengkorak, where the old continent was wave-cut notches with fossilised stalactites and stalagmite formations, submerged and features of sedimentary structures can be seen;Tanjung Buta gastropods, barnacles and corals that Curtain Cave (Gua Langsir), also at the and more than one legend associat- and Teluk Jemuruk, were areas where trilobite and brachiopod fossils are found; date back to about 7,000 years ago. Kilim River has an interesting tale. ed to it. and Tanjung Sabung, where limestone succeeds sandstone. Locals believed the cave was haunted The highest among the wave-cut The main legend tells how the and avoided it.The cave is also called A playground for geologists, the geoforest park is also a premier tourist destina- notches is at 23m above sea level - Gua Langsir in Malay.The word 'langsir' Garuda - a mythical bird in Hinduism meaning 7,000 years ago, the and Buddhism - tried to foil the tion with attractions like the Langkawi SkyBridge, the longest curved suspen- means curtain. It is said that the cave sion bridge in Southeast Asia at 708m above sea level. seafloor was at this level, which is the earned the name from the stalactites marriage of a Roman prince and a highest measured difference in that look like curtains. Chinese princess because the union sea-level height recorded anywhere of the two empires would be detri- Machinchang also has the popular SkyCab cable car - the longest free span in the region. Visitors often tour this geoforest park mental to smaller kingdoms. Garuda SkyCab cable car ascends almost 710m single rope cable car in Malaysia at 2.2km long.The cable car ascends almost above sea level. that is rich in flora and fauna on kidnapped the princess and hid her 710m above sea level to give visitors a stunning 360 degree view of Langkawi, The Bat Cave (Gua Kelawar) at the boats that cruise along the river in the cave. It is said there is a rock the Andaman Sea and the Thai Tarutao Island from its station on top of Mount Kilim River is home to three species mouth flanked by mangrove forests. formation there that resembles a Machincang. It also holds the record as one of the steepest cable car rides in the There are 104 different species of sleeping princess. world at a steep 42-degree gradient. mangrove trees out of the 119 in the world in Kilim alone. Another story tells of Sang Gedem- At the cable car station at the foot of the mountain is the Oriental Village that bai, a female giant with the power to has souvenir shops, spas, restaurants, deer farm, animal petting corner and There are also fish farms to visit and turn anything to stone. It is said that other tourist attractions. the Brahminy Kite and White-Bellied she visited the cave thousands of Sea Eagles to watch as the majestic years ago and took a liking to it. She Also within the geoforest park is the picturesque Temurun Waterfall and Telaga birds of prey circle above the waters wanted to move in but the cave Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall.There is now a new zipline attraction in the seeking food. inhabitants refused to move out for geoforest park that lets more adventurous visitors 'fly' from tree to tree and her, so she turned them into stone. across the valley above Seven Wells. Fish farm Lighthouse at Telaga Harbour - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 18 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 19 Geoforest Parks Geoforest Parks Kilim Karst Machinchang Cambrian GEOFOREST PARK GEOFOREST PARK

It is home to Mount Machinchang, the second highest peak on Langkawi at 700m above sea level.

It is due to the resistance of the rocks against tectonic deformation that the There are also important geosites in of insect-eating bats but what make Kilim is not without attractions ancient sandstone mountain, which rose from the sea hundreds of millions of this area.The highest sea level found it a geosite are the 5,000-year-old buried deep in myths and legends years ago, looks like it was chopped up. in Southeast Asia is here at Teluk Cina seashells embedded in its walls.This like many other places in Langkawi. Mati (Cape of Dead Chinese) on indicates that the cave was once At Tanjung Rhu, it has the sea-facing The geoforest park has important geosites - Teluk Datai, where the oldest grains Pulau Tanjung Dendang, indicated by underwater. Cave of Stories (Gua Cherita) with of sand are found; Pantai Pasir Tengkorak, where the old continent was wave-cut notches with fossilised stalactites and stalagmite formations, submerged and features of sedimentary structures can be seen; Tanjung Buta gastropods, barnacles and corals that Curtain Cave (Gua Langsir), also at the and more than one legend associat- and Teluk Jemuruk, were areas where trilobite and brachiopod fossils are found; date back to about 7,000 years ago. Kilim River has an interesting tale. ed to it. and Tanjung Sabung, where limestone succeeds sandstone. Locals believed the cave was haunted The highest among the wave-cut The main legend tells how the and avoided it.The cave is also called A playground for geologists, the geoforest park is also a premier tourist destina- notches is at 23m above sea level - Gua Langsir in Malay.The word 'langsir' Garuda - a mythical bird in Hinduism meaning 7,000 years ago, the and Buddhism - tried to foil the tion with attractions like the Langkawi SkyBridge, the longest curved suspen- means curtain. It is said that the cave sion bridge in Southeast Asia at 708m above sea level. seafloor was at this level, which is the earned the name from the stalactites marriage of a Roman prince and a highest measured difference in that look like curtains. Chinese princess because the union sea-level height recorded anywhere of the two empires would be detri- Machinchang also has the popular SkyCab cable car - the longest free span in the region. Visitors often tour this geoforest park mental to smaller kingdoms. Garuda SkyCab cable car ascends almost 710m single rope cable car in Malaysia at 2.2km long.The cable car ascends almost above sea level. that is rich in flora and fauna on kidnapped the princess and hid her 710m above sea level to give visitors a stunning 360 degree view of Langkawi, The Bat Cave (Gua Kelawar) at the boats that cruise along the river in the cave. It is said there is a rock the Andaman Sea and the Thai Tarutao Island from its station on top of Mount Kilim River is home to three species mouth flanked by mangrove forests. formation there that resembles a Machincang. It also holds the record as one of the steepest cable car rides in the There are 104 different species of sleeping princess. world at a steep 42-degree gradient. mangrove trees out of the 119 in the world in Kilim alone. Another story tells of Sang Gedem- At the cable car station at the foot of the mountain is the Oriental Village that bai, a female giant with the power to has souvenir shops, spas, restaurants, deer farm, animal petting corner and There are also fish farms to visit and turn anything to stone. It is said that other tourist attractions. the Brahminy Kite and White-Bellied she visited the cave thousands of Sea Eagles to watch as the majestic years ago and took a liking to it. She Also within the geoforest park is the picturesque Temurun Waterfall and Telaga birds of prey circle above the waters wanted to move in but the cave Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall.There is now a new zipline attraction in the seeking food. inhabitants refused to move out for geoforest park that lets more adventurous visitors 'fly' from tree to tree and her, so she turned them into stone. across the valley above Seven Wells. Fish farm Lighthouse at Telaga Harbour - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 18 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 19 Luxury Tourism

LANGKAWI UPSCALE TO LUXURY TRAVEL

The St. Regis has opened the country’s rst all-suite resort in Langkawi. ogue Magazine has acknowledged it. V Langkawi ranks third as the magazine’s Quoting from Vogue, The St. Regis has tionally known, other infrastructure top 10 hottest travel destinations for 2017. opened the country’s first all-suite developments will follow and this will resort here, complete with a Bill pave the way for travel operators to Coming from an international fashion and Bensley–designed restaurant and the bring high-income tourists to Langkawi. lifestyle magazine that defines the culture largest swimmable lagoon on the of fashion and lifestyle, it is a verification of island. Next summer (in April), the Existing hotels in the same league are the island moving up the value chain. Ritz-Carlton is scheduled to open a The Datai, The Andaman, Four Seasons 90-room, 30-villa property with a Resort, Tanjung Rhu Resort, The Westin, Vogue’s leadership and authority, as destination spa that will rival even Casa Del Mar and Vivanta by Taj Rebak Wikipedia noted, derives from the brand’s Thailand’s famous wellness retreats. Island. unique role as a cultural barometer for a global audience. The same sentiment has been echoed Langkawi Development Authority CEO by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Datuk Azizan Noordin has said Tourism In its December 2016 issue, Vogue has Razak that the opening luxury hotels Malaysia is negotiating more collabora- vouched for Malaysia especially its pristine such as The St Regis Langkawi is a tion with international airlines and beaches as a top travel destination for its boost for the reputation of the island inviting chartered flights to bring in socialite readers. “While Malaysia’s cuisine, resort particularly among upmarket high-income tourists to Langkawi from art, architecture, and beaches are just as tourists. Europe, The United States, Australia and fantastic, Langkawi, an archipelago made New Zealand. up of 99 islands on Malaysia’s west coast, is As Langkawi becomes more interna- about to put the country on the travel map.”

Read the article online at http://ww- w.vogue.com/13515667/top-travel-destinations-2017/.

The magazine’s choice can easily be explained in the latest development in Langkawi’s hospitality industry. Several six-star resorts are planned for and this year at least two would have opened for business. The Ritz Carlton, Langkawi is scheduled to open its door in July 2017

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 20 Luxury Tourism Education & Conservation

LANGKAWI UPSCALE ENGAGING OTHER TO LUXURY TRAVEL GEOPARKS lobal Geoparks are scattered across the G planet but wide internet connectivity has made them borderless. Nowadays, Geopark management bodies and players involved in the promotion of their local sites regularly share know-how and ideas by organising visits and keeping The St. Regis has opened the country’s rst all-suite resort in Langkawi. in touch online. Nature tour guide Osman Ayeb who is also Geopark Ambassador chatting with ogue Magazine has acknowledged it. teleconferencing. V Langkawi ranks third as the magazine’s Quoting from Vogue, The St. Regis has tionally known, other infrastructure E-mails, Facebook and other online top 10 hottest travel destinations for 2017. opened the country’s first all-suite developments will follow and this will communication platforms like Skype have resort here, complete with a Bill pave the way for travel operators to made it easier and cheaper for geoparks Coming from an international fashion and Bensley–designed restaurant and the bring high-income tourists to Langkawi. to connect across borders. lifestyle magazine that defines the culture largest swimmable lagoon on the of fashion and lifestyle, it is a verification of island. Next summer (in April), the Existing hotels in the same league are Langkawi has been working together with the island moving up the value chain. Ritz-Carlton is scheduled to open a The Datai, The Andaman, Four Seasons other Global Geoparks since 2008 to share 90-room, 30-villa property with a Resort, Tanjung Rhu Resort, The Westin, knowledge and expertise on developing Vogue’s leadership and authority, as destination spa that will rival even Casa Del Mar and Vivanta by Taj Rebak geoparks, is now using Skype to connect Wikipedia noted, derives from the brand’s Thailand’s famous wellness retreats. Island. with Japan's Muroto UNESCO Global unique role as a cultural barometer for a Geopark. global audience. The same sentiment has been echoed Langkawi Development Authority CEO by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Datuk Azizan Noordin has said Tourism Both geoparks have been working In its December 2016 issue, Vogue has Razak that the opening luxury hotels Malaysia is negotiating more collabora- together since 2013 in promotion, educa- vouched for Malaysia especially its pristine such as The St Regis Langkawi is a tion with international airlines and tion and capacity building programmes. beaches as a top travel destination for its boost for the reputation of the island inviting chartered flights to bring in A group chat via skype video teleconferencing to share and exchange informa- socialite readers. “While Malaysia’s cuisine, resort particularly among upmarket high-income tourists to Langkawi from In its communication with Muroto, art, architecture, and beaches are just as tourists. Europe, The United States, Australia and Langkawi is represented by famous snake fantastic, Langkawi, an archipelago made New Zealand. expert and naturalist Othman Ayeb, who is up of 99 islands on Malaysia’s west coast, is As Langkawi becomes more interna- also its Geopark Ambassador, tour guide Langkawi is Malaysia's only about to put the country on the travel Indara Rahayu and geopark rangers. UNESCO Global Geopark. It is map.” among 120 other UNESCO-listed The Japanese Global Geopark is represent- Global Geoparks in 33 countries Read the article online at http://ww- ed by its Muroto Promotion Office staff around the world. w.vogue.com/13515667/top-travel-desti- and tour guides involved in promoting the nations-2017/. geopark in the exchange. Langkawi's closest geopark neighbours are Indonesia's Batur The magazine’s choice can easily be The online communication programme UNESCO Global Geopark and Gunung explained in the latest development in with Muroto is Langkawi's first try and Sewu UNESCO Global Geopark. Langkawi’s hospitality industry. Several there are now plans to expand it to six-star resorts are planned for and this involve school children and the local year at least two would have opened for community. business. The Ritz Carlton, Langkawi is scheduled to open its door in July 2017

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 20 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 21 Education & Conservation Education & Conservation

Nature Talk radio show

School children listening to LADA ollaborating with local radio C station Langkawi FM geopark to the well-being of Langkawi. (104.8FM), the Langkawi Develop- ment Authority (LADA) engages the local community through the school children on why 'Langkawi UNESCO Global Langkawi has the oldest Geopark Nature Talk' programme. landmass in Malaysia

Invited guest speakers - often “ local personalities - sit for one-hour interviews with the radio deejay, sharing their knowledge and expertise in their respec- Prof Ibrahim Komoo (left seated) and former LADA CEO Tan Sri Khalid Ramli at tive fields or professions. a Radio Show aired on Langkawi FM (104.8FM) Nurturing Since the beginning of the year, Nature Talk has featured interviews that directly and indirectly promoted the UNESCO Global Geoparkians Geopark ambassador Geopark, its colourful local community and Children are the future. It is Teh Cheng Chye who its cultures, as well as geopark conserva- an over-used cliche but it is initiated the setting tion and important events. the truth. geopark club Most recently in November, the radio had speaking at a talk on geopark in LADA on air LADA Deputy Chief Executive Officer he younger generations are the Ahmad Zaini Zaba'ai and Geopark and T future custodians of Langkawi Conservation Division Manager Azmil UNESCO Global Geopark and it is good Munif Mohd Bukhari, who spoke about the to start them young to begin to appreci- November 5 Geopark Conservation Day ate conservation and sustainability. Teh says schools also expect their their previous Nature Clubs to 2016 event and its interesting Geopark Club members - known as reflect what Langkawi possesses. programmes. Pulau Tuba’s Harapan Cultural Art Group playing with traditional musical To facilitate these efforts, Geopark Geoparkians - to perform well instruments at a radio talk. Ambassador Teh Cheng Chye, a retired academically, have discipline and The former principal of SMK Tunku The month before, Langkawi FM inter- school principal, initiated the setting up good values. Putra in Padang Matsirat says He had shared that our snack ‘Laksa’ members of the award-winning viewed traditional Malay and Islamic of the first Geopark Club in Langkawi although he has retired from has all the ingredients for a healthy Langkawi Kampung Kilim Coopera- medical researcher Dr Abdul Ghani Hussain early this year and subsequently more "We expect them to be good teaching six years ago, he is active balanced meal. tive in June talking about how the to learn the secret of herbs.The trained schools joined in. communicators, who can speak in promoting school activities geopark has helped the local medical doctor, who is known as Dr Herb, English well.We want them to have related to Geopark. In September, the radio spoke to community improve their liveli- shared with listeners his knowledge on Now, the Langkawi Development empathy and the desire to help the founders of 'Trash Hero' Ulrika hood. herbs and their nutritional properties. Authority (LADA) would invite Geopark because they will be dealing with "In the past, every time LADA Player and Rohizad on making Clubs to join programmes it organised visitors. conducts programmes with schools, Langkawi a clean and beautiful In April, butterfly enthusiasts for school children. different groups of students or tourist destination and promoting Selvam Raman and Ong Chiang "It is also important that they love pupils would be selected to take volunteerism. Gaik shared both of their over "The clubs will send their senior mem- nature, have interest in geology, part. It could be the Nature Club 20-year-old love affair with the bers or junior members to take part, and have ample knowledge in local kids for one programme, and then For the Nature Talk programme in insects.They told listeners about depending on the level of the educa- cultures so they can present and the Geography Club kids for August, the then LADA Chief the uniqueness of Langkawi that tional programmes designed by LADA promote Malaysian cultures to another. Executive Officer Tan Sri Khalid has over 500 butterfly species. to teach them about the geopark and visitors. Ramli spoke to listeners about the why they must protect and preserve it. "Now we have solved this lack of inaugural Langkawi Tourism In February, the radio spoke to the "All these are important for continuity and follow-ups when Symposium 2016 that provided a players of Pulau Tuba's Harapan The LADA programmes are geared Geoparkians if they are to be tour Geopark-related programmes are platform for industry players to Cultural Art Group that regularly towards preparing them for their guides to promote Langkawi in the attended by Geoparkians.With the share their experience and address performs at government and working life.We can expect that in five future," he says. same kids taking part in the many challenges in the global tourism non-governmental events.The or ten years’ time, many of the children programmes organised by LADA, industry. uniqueness of this local music will be working in Langkawi, especially Teh says all schools now have they will learn better," he says. group is in its instruments that have in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Geopark Clubs, many re-branding Trash Hero Ulrika Player and her spouse The radio also aired the views of been passed down for generations. Rohizad at a radio talk. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 22 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 23 Education & Conservation

School children listening to LADA

geopark to the well-being of Langkawi.

school children on why Langkawi has the oldest “ landmass in Malaysia

Nurturing

Geoparkians Geopark ambassador Children are the future. It is Teh Cheng Chye who an over-used cliche but it is initiated the setting the truth. geopark club speaking at a talk on he younger generations are the geopark in LADA T future custodians of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark and it is good to start them young to begin to appreciate conservation and sustainability. Teh says schools also expect their their previous Nature Clubs to Geopark Club members - known as reflect what Langkawi possesses. To facilitate these efforts, Geopark Geoparkians - to perform well Ambassador Teh Cheng Chye, a retired academically, have discipline and The former principal of SMK Tunku school principal, initiated the setting up good values. Putra in Padang Matsirat says of the first Geopark Club in Langkawi although he has retired from early this year and subsequently more "We expect them to be good teaching six years ago, he is active schools joined in. communicators, who can speak in promoting school activities English well.We want them to have related to Geopark. Now, the Langkawi Development empathy and the desire to help Authority (LADA) would invite Geopark because they will be dealing with "In the past, every time LADA Clubs to join programmes it organised visitors. conducts programmes with schools, for school children. different groups of students or "It is also important that they love pupils would be selected to take "The clubs will send their senior mem- nature, have interest in geology, part. It could be the Nature Club bers or junior members to take part, and have ample knowledge in local kids for one programme, and then depending on the level of the educa- cultures so they can present and the Geography Club kids for tional programmes designed by LADA promote Malaysian cultures to another. to teach them about the geopark and visitors. why they must protect and preserve it. "Now we have solved this lack of "All these are important for continuity and follow-ups when The LADA programmes are geared Geoparkians if they are to be tour Geopark-related programmes are towards preparing them for their guides to promote Langkawi in the attended by Geoparkians.With the working life.We can expect that in five future," he says. same kids taking part in the many or ten years’ time, many of the children programmes organised by LADA, will be working in Langkawi, especially Teh says all schools now have they will learn better," he says. in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Geopark Clubs, many re-branding

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 23 Education & Conservation

GEOPARK EDUCATIONAL CRUISE

Datuk Alexander s a tourism operator A himself, Alexander who owns yacht charter company and travel So far, his yachts have taken 1,800 become junior rangers...they will not agency Tropical Charters, is children and 680 teachers out for the litter, they will champion green practices. helping to teach children about educational cruises to appreciate Langkawi UNESCO Global Langkawi's natural beauty, its geological "The geopark is not just about green Geopark and the importance of and cultural heritage and to preserve tourism or rocks. It is about community conserving nature. and protect it. growth and the people's livelihood.The whole Geopark concept of Langkawi is "You would be surprised how many about natural beauty, so we have to have One and a half years ago, his company people in Langkawi have not been on a balanced growth.When mother nature is introduced the Langkawi Geopark yacht. So the kids and teachers are really happy, the community will be happy Educational Cruise that takes school appreciative of the chance to sail. too.” children out for cruises on his yachts. "But we want to do this programme with The CSR programme is in high demand During the three-hour cruise, students schools because we need to teach our from schools from mainland Kedah, and teachers get to listen to a guide tell kids why the geopark is important.When Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and as far as the them about the geopark and learn green they know and understand, they will East Coast. practices like not using plastic bags and the importance of keeping the island's waterways clean.

"They learn how to be environmentally conscious while enjoying themselves on a cruise.They also have swimming sessions with our lifeguards watching over them and medics on standby," Alexander says.

The cruise for school kids was meant to be a one-off affair but when Tropical Charters received very good response for it, Alexander decided to keep the programme running as the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 1247 Education & Conservation Education & Conservation

aturalist Irshad Mobarak mimicked the calls of a hornbill. Seeing a bird Nfly past him, he quickly pointed to it and he called out its name - the sand piper.

Next, he turned the pages of a book in his hands and stopped at a page to show the picture of the bird to his captive audience.

They are young children, who crowded around him as they listened with bated breath, soaking up every word he said.

He told the children how swifts and swiftlets could fly without stopping for as long as two years, and how hornbills were monogamous, mating for life.

The occasion was a Geopark Conservation Day and the venue is Taman Legenda (Park of Legends), a showcase of what Geopark means in the GEOPARK Silat martial art display town of Kuah, Langkawi. by local youths. EDUCATIONAL CRUISE -

YOU CANNOT LOVE WHAT YOU DO Datuk Alexander NOT KNOW s a tourism operator A himself, Alexander who owns As the Malay saying goes; you cannot yacht charter company and travel So far, his yachts have taken 1,800 become junior rangers...they will not love what you do not know, and Langka agency Tropical Charters, is children and 680 teachers out for the litter, they will champion green practices. wi Development Authority (LADA) is educational cruises to appreciate going the extra mile to inculcate upon helping to teach children about - Langkawi UNESCO Global Langkawi's natural beauty, its geological "The geopark is not just about green these young children what it is to Geopark and the importance of and cultural heritage and to preserve tourism or rocks. It is about community appreciate the things they are endowed conserving nature. and protect it. growth and the people's livelihood.The with. whole Geopark concept of Langkawi is "You would be surprised how many about natural beauty, so we have to have The choice of Taman Legenda, a One and a half years ago, his company people in Langkawi have not been on a balanced growth.When mother nature is introduced the Langkawi Geopark 20-hectare site, is indeed ideal to hold yacht. So the kids and teachers are really happy, the community will be happy the grand Geopark Conservation Day to Educational Cruise that takes school appreciative of the chance to sail. too.” children out for cruises on his yachts. educate everyone on the importance of protecting Langkawi's natural heritage "But we want to do this programme with The CSR programme is in high demand During the three-hour cruise, students that has gained international recogni schools because we need to teach our from schools from mainland Kedah, tion as an UNESCO Global Geopark. and teachers get to listen to a guide tell kids why the geopark is important.When Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and as far as the them about the geopark and learn green they know and understand, they will East Coast. - practices like not using plastic bags and Over 2,000 people turned up, including the importance of keeping the island's Group photo of participants those from 25 government agencies and waterways clean. at the Geopark Conserva- non-governmental organisations such tion Day. as Friends of Langkawi Geopark (FLAG), "They learn how to be environmentally Malaysian Nature Society and Langkawi conscious while enjoying themselves on Tourist Guides' Association. a cruise.They also have swimming FUN- sessions with our lifeguards watching The half-day "geo nature" themed over them and medics on standby," programme saw top LADA officials, Alexander says. FILLED including LADA CEO Tan Sri Khalid Ramli joining in a day of fun. The cruise for school kids was meant to be a one-off affair but when Tropical Geopark Conservation Day They planted native seedlings in the Charters received very good response compound of the park; other partici for it, Alexander decided to keep the pants took part in GeoHunt, GeoCoral conservation and auto show programme running as the company’s - Corporate Social Responsibility. programmes; and children in GeoNature drawing competition.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 1247 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 25 Education & Conservation

GeoWalk involved Irshad taking groups of eager young students, Dr Abdul Ghani Hussain, known as Dr Herb, sharing his knowledge on local herbs and its medicinal values.

Chairman of the Langkawi chapter of the Malaysian Nature Society Eric Sinnaya says the venue, Taman Lagenda, is itself a good teaching tool, as the beautiful 20ha park has features depicting Langkawi's legends, myths and geological history.

He believes that teaching children to love nature and the environment will have positive impact on many levels.

"Naturalists and groups like MNS and FLAG have the pool of expertise for LADA to tap on. We can share knowledge and help engage the people," he says.

As the children and youths went around with their nature walks and treasure hunt, several booths displayed uniquely Langkawi products, such as GeoCookies - - homemade biscuits inspired by Langkawi's fossils and geological wonders by tour guide Nor Azlina Ahmad, who is one of the 21 geopark ambassadors appointed to promote Langkawi’s assets, its Global Geopark status.

Naturalist Irshad Mobarak showing a book with photographs of the Dr Abdul Ghani Hussain, better known as birds found in Langkawi to curious school children during a nature walk Dr Herb, sharing the types of herbs that at Taman Legenda. are good for health.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 26 Education & Conservation

Tan Sri Khalid Ramli, former LADA CEO, planting a Tan Sri Khalid agged o participants of a sapling in Taman Legenda during the Geopark Geo-Hunt event. Conservation Day.

CONSERVATION IS NOT A CHOICE

Khalid says Langkawi's conservation is crucial as an integral part of its journey to become a premium eco- and geo-tourism destination.

"We are pursuing it more rigorously and with greater intent. We recognise that school children can play a very important role as change agents," he tells where2 at the event.

It is the hope that the children, with raised awareness on the importance of conservation, will become adults who will protect Langkawi's natural heritage even more than their own parents.

The urgent need to conserve nature and protect the Geopark is summed up by LADA Geopark and Conservation Division manager Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari in a few words; "There is no PLANet B".

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 27 Education & Conservation Education & Conservation Kampung Kilim Community Cooperative Kubang angkawi becoming a UNESCO L Global Geopark has greatly Badak River benefitted the local community by Fisherman's Cooperative creating opportunities for the people to improve their livelihoods in the services sector - tourism. t Kubang Badak, which is being A promoted as a 'bio-geotrail' and No longer relying on agricultural upcoming high-end tourist destination activities like farming and fishing to in Langkawi for nature-lovers, things are survive, many have found work in the busy for the local cooperative. hospitality and food and beverages The Kampung Kilim jetty. businesses, and some have turned The Kubang Badak River Fisherman's entrepreneurs. Kasa Harun Cooperative, which was set up in 2012 and has 60 members from the villages of Village folks have also ventured into The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is "We are hoping to start a handicraft Kampung Ewa, Kampung Kubang Badak, enterprises of their own. In Kampung famed for its mangrove forests, business too but we need to find Kampung Kelubi and Kampung Belibis, Many members of the cooperative in Kubang Badak Kilim, villagers have set up the Kampung making it a must-see for nature-lov- people who can make quality is offering river cruises and tours for becoming a tourist destination, the members can Tour guides from Asian countries taken on a Kilim Cooperative in 2010 to do business ing visitors; and the ancient products.We hope we can do it in tourists to see the mangrove forest and mangrove forest tour in Kubang Badak by excursions or sharing their skills. Langkawi's own nature guides to generate income and look after the limestone karst hills with vertical the near future," he says. sights, as well as fishing and trolling interests of its members. and overhanging cliffs. excursions. Photo credit: Kubang Badak River Fishermen's Cooperative Apart from doing business, the The cooperative's deputy chairman Kasa It also has beautiful lagoons and cooperative also serves Langkawi "We have seven licensed boats to take Kubang Badak also features "We want to have a restaurant that Harun says the cooperative began with beaches. Other attractions include by taking part in programmes tourists out, and almost 80 fishing beautiful sceneries like the Mount offers great food and a great view 68 members but now has 130. the Bat Cave, Cave of Stories (Gua organised by the Langkawi Devel- boats," the cooperative chairman Sabri Machinchang landscape at the river of Machinchang. It is still in Cherita) and fish farms. opment Authority and other Musa says. mouth, and natural attractions like planning stage.We will have to "We have 120 boats belonging to our agencies for the betterment of the an underwater geyser and sandbar. secure a grant, take a loan for it. members that are chartered to take Other than nature tours and cruises, geopark and the people. "Tourism has given villagers opportuni- tourists out for river cruises to see the the Kampung Kilim cooperative also ties to improve their livelihoods.Those On Jemuruk Island, visitors can see "Perhaps along the way, we can also sights at the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. runs a restaurant, catering service "We give our commitment to take with boats can offer cruises, licensed trilobites, a fossil group of extinct develop some cottage industry and canopy renting business. It also part in any programme by the boatmen can lend their skills to pilot the marine arthropods while at Dangli products like handicrafts or local "Those who want to rent out their boats has vans to rent out for tours. authorities like green and environ- boats, fishermen can teach visitors Island, they will see unique marine snacks," he says. must be registered members with the mental-friendly initiatives. Anything about fishing, and some who can speak life and corals in the clear water. cooperative.We encourage our fellow "We took part in national village that is good for the geopark will be in Chinese, English or other languages Like its counterpart in Kilim, the villagers to do this because this is a way competitions and won some grants good for the community," Kasa says. can serve as tour guides." Banking in on the many attractions Kubang Badak cooperative also for them to make extra income for their that made it possible for us to invest in Kubang Badak, the cooperative lends a hand to the authorities in families," he says. in these other businesses. Kubang Badak near the northern coast also offer services like kayaking, community programmes and of Langkawi island has the third largest eagle watching, cave exploration, awareness campaigns. mangrove forest in the Langkawi island drop, island hopping, UNESCO Global Geopark after the Kilim snorkeling, jungle trekking and "When we conduct tours or take Karst and Dayang Bunting Geoforests. island tours. part in programmes, we always remind children and visitors not to In the mangrove forests are traces of Sabri says there are plans to build a litter, especially in the sea. charcoal factories left behind by a food court at the fishermen jetty so Siamese community that built a settle- locals can showcase Langkawi's "Working with the Fisheries Depart- ment there to harvest mangrove wood local food to visitors, and a floating ment, we make sure fishing nets over a century ago. restaurant at another location for don't get tangled with the corals Floating restaurant at Kilim Karst high-end tourists. and destroy them. Geoforest Park. rivermouth of the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park a boat to tour the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 1282 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 29 Education & Conservation Education & Conservation Kampung Kilim Community Cooperative Kubang angkawi becoming a UNESCO L Global Geopark has greatly Badak River benefitted the local community by Fisherman's Cooperative creating opportunities for the people to improve their livelihoods in the services sector - tourism. t Kubang Badak, which is being A promoted as a 'bio-geotrail' and No longer relying on agricultural upcoming high-end tourist destination activities like farming and fishing to in Langkawi for nature-lovers, things are survive, many have found work in the busy for the local cooperative. hospitality and food and beverages The Kampung Kilim jetty. businesses, and some have turned The Kubang Badak River Fisherman's entrepreneurs. Kasa Harun Cooperative, which was set up in 2012 and has 60 members from the villages of Village folks have also ventured into The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is "We are hoping to start a handicraft Kampung Ewa, Kampung Kubang Badak, enterprises of their own. In Kampung famed for its mangrove forests, business too but we need to find Kampung Kelubi and Kampung Belibis, Many members of the cooperative in Kubang Badak Kilim, villagers have set up the Kampung making it a must-see for nature-lov- people who can make quality is offering river cruises and tours for becoming a tourist destination, the members can Tour guides from Asian countries taken on a Kilim Cooperative in 2010 to do business ing visitors; and the ancient products.We hope we can do it in tourists to see the mangrove forest and mangrove forest tour in Kubang Badak by excursions or sharing their skills. Langkawi's own nature guides to generate income and look after the limestone karst hills with vertical the near future," he says. sights, as well as fishing and trolling interests of its members. and overhanging cliffs. excursions. Photo credit: Kubang Badak River Fishermen's Cooperative Apart from doing business, the The cooperative's deputy chairman Kasa It also has beautiful lagoons and cooperative also serves Langkawi "We have seven licensed boats to take Kubang Badak also features "We want to have a restaurant that Harun says the cooperative began with beaches. Other attractions include by taking part in programmes tourists out, and almost 80 fishing beautiful sceneries like the Mount offers great food and a great view 68 members but now has 130. the Bat Cave, Cave of Stories (Gua organised by the Langkawi Devel- boats," the cooperative chairman Sabri Machinchang landscape at the river of Machinchang. It is still in Cherita) and fish farms. opment Authority and other Musa says. mouth, and natural attractions like planning stage.We will have to "We have 120 boats belonging to our agencies for the betterment of the an underwater geyser and sandbar. secure a grant, take a loan for it. members that are chartered to take Other than nature tours and cruises, geopark and the people. "Tourism has given villagers opportuni- tourists out for river cruises to see the the Kampung Kilim cooperative also ties to improve their livelihoods.Those On Jemuruk Island, visitors can see "Perhaps along the way, we can also sights at the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. runs a restaurant, catering service "We give our commitment to take with boats can offer cruises, licensed trilobites, a fossil group of extinct develop some cottage industry and canopy renting business. It also part in any programme by the boatmen can lend their skills to pilot the marine arthropods while at Dangli products like handicrafts or local "Those who want to rent out their boats has vans to rent out for tours. authorities like green and environ- boats, fishermen can teach visitors Island, they will see unique marine snacks," he says. must be registered members with the mental-friendly initiatives. Anything about fishing, and some who can speak life and corals in the clear water. cooperative.We encourage our fellow "We took part in national village that is good for the geopark will be in Chinese, English or other languages Like its counterpart in Kilim, the villagers to do this because this is a way competitions and won some grants good for the community," Kasa says. can serve as tour guides." Banking in on the many attractions Kubang Badak cooperative also for them to make extra income for their that made it possible for us to invest in Kubang Badak, the cooperative lends a hand to the authorities in families," he says. in these other businesses. Kubang Badak near the northern coast also offer services like kayaking, community programmes and of Langkawi island has the third largest eagle watching, cave exploration, awareness campaigns. mangrove forest in the Langkawi island drop, island hopping, UNESCO Global Geopark after the Kilim snorkeling, jungle trekking and "When we conduct tours or take Karst and Dayang Bunting Geoforests. island tours. part in programmes, we always remind children and visitors not to In the mangrove forests are traces of Sabri says there are plans to build a litter, especially in the sea. charcoal factories left behind by a food court at the fishermen jetty so Siamese community that built a settle- locals can showcase Langkawi's "Working with the Fisheries Depart- ment there to harvest mangrove wood local food to visitors, and a floating ment, we make sure fishing nets over a century ago. restaurant at another location for don't get tangled with the corals Floating restaurant at Kilim Karst high-end tourists. and destroy them. Geoforest Park. rivermouth of the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park a boat to tour the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 1282 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 29 Geopark Heroes & Personalities GEO GROUPS A Global Geopark is a thriving unified area that advances the protection and use of geological heritage in a sustainable way, and promotes the economic well-being of the people who live there.

t is a bottom-up approach to empower local I communities and give them the opportunity to develop cohesive partnerships with the common goal of promoting the area’s significant geological processes, features, periods of time, historical themes linked to geology, or outstanding geological beauty.

These definitions necessitate the engagement of the local community at different levels of society such as the creating of geo groups to bring about a deeper community involvement. GEO VOLUNTEERS The Langkawi Development Authori- ty encourages volunteerism in youths aged 18 to 30, especially those interested in activities benefi- cial to the community and related to the UNESCO Global Geopark. In its 'Geo Volunteer' programmes, youths take part in geopark activities, that impart to them information on the geosites as well as the chance to contribute their own ideas and views GEO COMMUNITY GEO TEACHERS towards protecting the geopark. The Langkawi Development Authori- The Langkawi Development Authori- ty (LADA) organises 'Geo Communi- ty (LADA) ropes in teachers - both in The idea is to inculcate in them a ty' programmes for locals and people and outside Langkawi - to help sense of responsibility so they can outside Langkawi. increase understanding of the contribute productively towards Unesco Global Geopark. developing the UNESCO Global The aim of the programmes is to Geopark. promote the Langkawi UNESCO This government agency organises The Geo Volunteer programmes are Global Geopark to both the local 'Geo Teacher' programmes that designed to attract youths to be community and outsiders, so they promote the geosites to teachers and involved in conservation efforts, will understand the importance of increase their understanding and which are important to Langkawi; the geopark status to the island. awareness on the geopark status. and to develop the potentials of young people and instill good habits The programmes also help raise Among the programmes held earlier and adopt sustainable practices. awareness and knowledge about this year were the Nature Sustainabil- Langkawi's natural heritage and ity Exploration and Collaborative Earlier this year, LADA held several marine life that need protection and Programme with the Titi Gantung youth volunteerism programmes conservation. Primary School, Geopark Briefing such as the Rakan Muda (Geo with school heads and teachers in Volunteer) Camp and Green Technol- An example of a Geo Community Langkawi, and Geo Teachers’ visit to ogy programme with the Langkawi programme organized by LADA was the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park with District Youth and Sports office; and the Independence Day celebration Information and Communication the Nature Volunteers programme with some 150 Kubang Badak folks in Technology (ICT) teachers from with students from Universiti August this year. Locals were given a Langkawi. Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Shah Alam at briefing on the geopark while the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. enjoying the festivities and games. The programmes were participated by 130 teachers who had the chance The two programmes involved 100 to see and experience the unique- youths to replant mangrove plants ness of Langkawi's natural heritage. and clean up to promote sustainable practices in the Kilim geoforest park.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 30 Geopark Heroes & Personalities

GEOPARK AMBASSADORS

obody knows Langkawi as well as the Npeople, who work to promote the UNESCO Global Geopark on a daily basis, A group photo of all 21 Geopark Ambassadors like tourism players, naturalists and after the appointment ceremony in 2016. educators. They are: The Langkawi Development Authority Mr Mehad Daud Mdm Norini Wan Awang, school Mr Asri Shaaban, community leader appoints 21 as Geopark Ambassadors, who principal Mr Abu Bakar Che Saad, boatman officially represent the Langkawi community to Mdm Fuziah Mohamad, tour guide Mr Maton Mahmud, community Mdm Indara Rahayu Mohd Noor, promote the geopark in the course of their work. leader nature tour guide Mr Othman Ayeb, naturalist, nature Mdm Nor Azlina Ahmad, entrepre- tour guide and snake expert Their job during their two-year appointment is neur and GeoCookies maker Mr Aidi Abdullah, naturalist mainly to share their expertise and knowledge to Dr Abdul Ghani Hussain, doctor and Mr Pak Malau, restauranteur herb expert ensure others get the right information about , community leader Mr Sabri Musa, Kubang Badak River geopark, become aware of the importance of Mr Muhammad Mohd Azmi, Fishermen's Cooperative chairman photographer and NGO personality preserving Langkawi's natural beauty and resourc- Mr Rusasmizal Mohd Ghazali, Mr Khairudin Abdul Hamid, artist es, to encourage tourism, to help locals increase community leader Mr Malik Abdul Aziz, community Mr Teh Cheng Chye, teacher their economic benefits through tourism, and to leader Mr Mohd Rizal Bin Hassan, support and promote events and programmes Mr Razmi Rahmat, hotelier businessman and NGO personality held for the good of the geopark. ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// swamp cleanup and tours to learn about the geopark. HOTELIER RAZMI RAHMAT: Razmi, a city boy from Kuala Lumpur, has SERVING FROM THE HEART been living in Kedah for over 20 years. He says he first visited Langkawi in 1991 for s the general manager of Adya Hotel the opening of a new resort that coincided ALangkawi, Razmi Rahmat is in the frontline with the first Langkawi International of the hospitality industry. Maritime and Aerospace exhibition. He meets many visitors and hotel guests and "I have been in love with the island ever his role of a Geopark Ambassador will ensure since. I never thought I would return to that the visitors take home fond memories of Langkawi at that time. But now, this island their visit to Langkawi UNESCO Global is home to me.” Geopark. “Geopark is not just about rocks, it is about its Razmi's favourite thing about Langkawi is people; members of the local community who its natural beauty. He has travelled the give the island its soul and colour. world and never found another place that could rival Langkawi's natural beauty and "The local community should be involved with sharing the stories and tranquil atmosphere. knowledge about the geopark with the tourists.That also means I can play a role in sharing what I know with my hotel guests. "It is always worth spending time explor- ing the island by land, sea and air.You can "At Adya Hotel, we place coffee table books and Geopark brochures in the explore the island by car or motorcycle, rooms.We also have a Geopark Stall at our restaurant, serving local delicacies take a boat ride for a cruise along the Kilim for breakfast. River, or sail out to sea for island hopping "The most important thing for us is to provide service from our hearts to win or snorkeling at Pulau Payar marine park. over our guests and ensure they have a memorable stay," he says. You can even take a helicopter ride to see the spectacular sight of the many islands Razmi also assists locals improve their livelihoods through economic oppor- or go skydiving. tunities in the tourism sector and raise awareness on the importance of preserving the island's natural resources in his role as Geopark Ambassador. "We have it all in Langkawi and visitors only have to choose how they want to Adya Hotel staff takes part in local community activities like mangrove enjoy its natural beauty," he says. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 31 Advisor

Geopark Heroes & Personalities Geopark Heroes & Personalities Snake charmer "I am appointed Geopark Ambassador In 2011 and 2015 when UNESCO because I am a nature guide," he says. evaluators visited Langkawi to reassess OTHMAN AYEB and revalidate its Global Geopark As a guide, his job requires him to share status, Othman was tasked to guide For the love of nature information about Langkawi’s geosites them. In 2015, he was invited to Japan LAUGHING and taking tourists, students and the GEOPARK to promote the 'geo-guide' profession. media on trips while showing them MATTER what makes the island unique and "Langkawi is a geopark before Japan, so NO beautiful. they learned from us. An eco-tourism he Geopark concept was relatively On June 1, 2007, Langkawi was accepted group from Japan also visited us to new and lightly taken with a ton of as a member of the prestigious UNESCO "When I take groups out to see the learn how we survive as full-time T geosites, I will always stress on three skepticism even a decade ago. Global Geoparks Network (GGN), giving it guides because in Japan, they cannot international validation as a Global aspects - geology, ecology and organi- make a living just working as a guide." sation. The three make up the acronym "I thought it was something like a theme Geopark. GEO. Othman is also working with the park, like Disneyland," says Datuk Dr Langkawi Development Authority to Kamarulzaman Abdul Ghani, who was the As a marketing brand, Langkawi was FLAG chairman Datuk Kamarulzaman "I want my groups to be able to see the design courses for training specialised general manager of the Langkawi Devel- officially renamed 'Langkawi Geopark' on Abdul Ghani uniqueness of Langkawi's geological nature guides for the geopark. opment Authority (LADA). May 31, 2006, by the Kedah government and later on October 6 affirmed by the features. I want them to know about Malaysia. Japan, China and "World famous geologists (Professor federal government. n 1999, Othman Ayeb achieved a the rich flora and fauna that thrive in Originally from Johor, Othman moved European countries are pushing Emeritus Datuk) Ibrahim Komoo and I Guinness World Book of Records as our ecosystem. to Langkawi - his wife's hometown - in for Geopark recognition for the (Professor) Mohd Shafeea Leman came to It rested on the government to help the the world champion in the inaugural 1991 and stayed on ever since, falling in sake of sustainable development, "Then, I want to show them how the meet me, but I was skeptical because I local community to understand and snake-handling competition in the love with the laid back lifestyle. conservation, education and people of Langkawi had organised didn't understand what this geopark convince them that a geopark status was world. socio-economic balance.” themselves as a community to protect "I was a scout in school. I have always thing was.” good for Langkawi; to take the tourism The love of snake handling and the the geopark they have. A geopark is a loved the outdoors, the jungle. My wife sector to a higher level, and in turn Now retired, Kamarulzaman has great outdoors made him stay on in the place where its people have space to told me if I wanted to live and work He admitted that he was not "very keen" improve their livelihoods. continued his work promoting Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark for benefit from the status and improve somewhere close to nature, Langkawi is about it when the idea was first presented Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark this lad who hails from Johore, a their livelihoods," he says. the place. to him in 2005 by the Malaysian Geologi- A lot of promotional and advertising through a non-governmental southern state in Malaysia. cal Heritage Group. exercises were implemented. A magazine (Photos courtesy of www.rimbawi-langkawi.com) organisation called Friends of Othman also heads the Langkawi on geopark was published and a theme Langkawi Geopark (FLAG) that was Today, Othman works as a nature guide Tourist Guide Association and active as It was a time when investors in Langkawi song was introduced. set up in 2013. and knows the geosites in Langkawi a volunteer to promote Langkawi were all involved in tourism-related like the back of his hand. UNESCO Global Geopark. projects to make money. But upon further "The song used to be played at almost "We need to have a communi- briefing by the National University every government event in Langkawi. ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ty-based organisation that can Malaysia's Institute for Environment and Until today, the local radio station Langka- help keep an eye on things and Development (LESTARI), he began to wi FM still plays it," he says. PRINCIPAL Norini says her school had received assist the authorities and the understand what it is and how the NORINI WAN AWANG: several visits from schools around people to do what is necessary. We Geopark concept can be the paradigm But a decade down the road, Kamarulz- Malaysia and the world annually can only say we are the best change that Langkawi needed. aman says Langkawi - the 52nd Geopark through exchange programmes. geopark if we have the best FOR THE LOVE in the UNESCO Global Geopark Network - practices in sustainability, and the “I realised that Langkawi, a tourist destina- still has a long way to go as compared to OF EDUCATION "So, as a Geopark school, our students people understand it and benefit tion that has always banked on nature as progress made by other Geoparks set up will do their part to promote Langkawi from it. edawang Secondary School in Norini has been invited to give brief- its attractions, has not tapped into later. to their overseas peers through forums KLangkawi is not your normal school, ings and lectures on Langkawi UNESCO 'geo-tourism'. and other social activities like cultural “If we talk of geological it is a Geopark school. Global Geopark and taken part in "There are 127 Geoparks in 35 countries. exchanges. landscapes, other Geoparks like international exchanges as a Geopark "People visit places to admire landscapes Malaysia is not picking up as fast as Being Geopark has earned the envy of Ambassador. She and other Geopark those in China surpasses Langka- "The arrangement has greatly benefited like mountains, hills, rivers, beaches...all expected. Since 2006, Langkawi has many. It has hosted exchange Ambassadors recently visited Indone- wi. But in terms of best practices, I our kids because they get to connect that have to do with geology, the study of remained the sole Geopark in the country. programmes with schools from other sia's Gunung Sewu UNESCO Global believe Langkawi UNESCO Global with students from other countries, earth's history. We could actually educate countries. Geopark. Geopark has a chance to shine." practise to speak English and learn people who visit Langkawi to appreciate "There are over 10 potential Geoparks in "Three to four times a year we will have about other places," she says. that too. kids from other countries visiting us. We "We met and exchanged information just hosted three Singaporean schools. As a Geopark Ambassador, her role is to with Gunung Sewu geopark officers. It "To me, it was a new opportunity to give Before that, we had visitors from make sure her students understand the was a good experience because we all Langkawi some added value, and to Mexico and Hong Kong. Next year, a important part they can play if they got to learn new things.” generate new interest in the place. South Korean school is coming,” says want to have a sustainable Langkawi. Langkawi's geological history could be a school principal Norini Wan Awang. Norini is from Baling, a rural town on new product," he says. Sharing information with other schools mainland Kedah, but has lived in will raise awareness about Geopark. To Langkawi for 30 years because what She has been credited with attaining Datuk Kamarulzaman and Tan Sri me, doing promotional work and the status of a "green school" for the she loves most about the island is its Khalid Ramli listening to Dr Ghani environmental-friendly practices advocacy has become a routine. I find a peaceful and quiet lifestyle and friendly Abdul Hussain who shared on the adopted in her school in the state of lot of fun in it," she says. local community. goodness of a Malay dish called Laksa. Kedah. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 32 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 33 Advisor

Geopark Heroes & Personalities

GEOPARK LAUGHING NO MATTER he Geopark concept was relatively On June 1, 2007, Langkawi was accepted T new and lightly taken with a ton of as a member of the prestigious UNESCO skepticism even a decade ago. Global Geoparks Network (GGN), giving it international validation as a Global "I thought it was something like a theme Geopark. park, like Disneyland," says Datuk Dr Kamarulzaman Abdul Ghani, who was the As a marketing brand, Langkawi was FLAG chairman Datuk Kamarulzaman general manager of the Langkawi Devel- officially renamed 'Langkawi Geopark' on Abdul Ghani opment Authority (LADA). May 31, 2006, by the Kedah government and later on October 6 affirmed by the Malaysia. Japan, China and "World famous geologists (Professor federal government. European countries are pushing Emeritus Datuk) Ibrahim Komoo and for Geopark recognition for the (Professor) Mohd Shafeea Leman came to It rested on the government to help the sake of sustainable development, meet me, but I was skeptical because I local community to understand and conservation, education and didn't understand what this geopark convince them that a geopark status was socio-economic balance.” thing was.” good for Langkawi; to take the tourism sector to a higher level, and in turn Now retired, Kamarulzaman has He admitted that he was not "very keen" improve their livelihoods. continued his work promoting about it when the idea was first presented Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark to him in 2005 by the Malaysian Geologi- A lot of promotional and advertising through a non-governmental cal Heritage Group. exercises were implemented. A magazine organisation called Friends of on geopark was published and a theme Langkawi Geopark (FLAG) that was It was a time when investors in Langkawi song was introduced. set up in 2013. were all involved in tourism-related projects to make money. But upon further "The song used to be played at almost "We need to have a communi- briefing by the National University every government event in Langkawi. ty-based organisation that can Malaysia's Institute for Environment and Until today, the local radio station Langka- help keep an eye on things and Development (LESTARI), he began to wi FM still plays it," he says. assist the authorities and the understand what it is and how the people to do what is necessary. We Geopark concept can be the paradigm But a decade down the road, Kamarulz- can only say we are the best change that Langkawi needed. aman says Langkawi - the 52nd Geopark geopark if we have the best in the UNESCO Global Geopark Network - practices in sustainability, and the “I realised that Langkawi, a tourist destina- still has a long way to go as compared to people understand it and benefit tion that has always banked on nature as progress made by other Geoparks set up from it. its attractions, has not tapped into later. 'geo-tourism'. “If we talk of geological "There are 127 Geoparks in 35 countries. landscapes, other Geoparks like "People visit places to admire landscapes Malaysia is not picking up as fast as those in China surpasses Langka- like mountains, hills, rivers, beaches...all expected. Since 2006, Langkawi has wi. But in terms of best practices, I that have to do with geology, the study of remained the sole Geopark in the country. believe Langkawi UNESCO Global earth's history. We could actually educate Geopark has a chance to shine." people who visit Langkawi to appreciate "There are over 10 potential Geoparks in that too.

"To me, it was a new opportunity to give Langkawi some added value, and to generate new interest in the place. Langkawi's geological history could be a new product," he says.

Datuk Kamarulzaman and Tan Sri Khalid Ramli listening to Dr Ghani Abdul Hussain who shared on the goodness of a Malay dish called Laksa. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 33 Advisor Advisor

Geopark Heroes & Personalities Geopark Heroes & Personalities

he name Irshad Mobarak is a At the recent Geopark Conserva- T well-known naturalist in Langkawi. tion Day organised by LADA in Many know him as 'Jungle Walla', which is November, Irshad himself took the name of his company that conducts charge of the GeoWalk educational nature tours in the Langkawi programme for children. UNESCO Global Geopark. He led groups of primary school A former banker, he started his love affair children around Taman Legenda with nature since he was a boy. He to learn about nature, birds, plants returned to the natural world he loves by and issues like climate change. DRHERB setting up a wildlife tour company in Langkawi to celebrate the beauty of nature and its birds, insects and plants. Brahminy Kite eagle Apart from leading nature walks for tourists, Irshad also trains budding one we first saw,” he says. naturalists and conservationists and takes part in scientific expeditions. Irshad believes enforcement is not the cure all but the lack of education on He has appeared on the National protecting and appreciating the natural Geographic Channel, Discovery Channel environment would do more damage. Hempedu Bumi Kandar Rusa Urang Aring and most recently as the first Malaysian to be featured on the globally broadcasted Education department should be more Hornbill TEDxWWF talk in Singapore. involved in teaching pupils and students of the natural world at an age when Those who have joined his tours would children are naturally curious and keen to He told them interesting facts like remember being captivated by his explore and learn. how swiftlets and swifts could fly passion and talent in engaging his two years without landing, how audience, whether young or old. If he Protecting Langkawi’s nature is not for the hornbills mated for life, and speaks of concerns about the environ- preservation of the tourism industry, but pointed to them a cycad plant that s Langkawi continues to progress “We have to fight, so we don’t lose our "I then keep and care for the ment, one would remember his words. to ensure a supply of clean water; and is a species eaten by dinosaurs but A and grow as a premier eco-tourism biodiversity. plants at home so they don’t die prevent soil erosion, sedimentation and poisonous to people. and geo-tourism destination for both and we can preserve the vast "I will be planting trees forever if children pollution that is detrimental to life. local and international high-end tourists, “If we cannot get the younger generations knowledge in herbal medicine. in kindergartens and schools are not "These are the kind of information concern over the environment is also to be interested in conservation, we will educated on conservation. If we can “Saving the rainforest is saving our own you want to share with people, like heightening among naturalists and lose everything in our time.” “I encourage everyone to do this. If educate kids from young, then my job of lives and future,” he says, adding that he children, and they will begin to non-governmental organisations. they have some space at home, planting trees will come to an end. looks forward to more conservation have a sense of appreciation Dr Ghani, better known as Dr Herb, says it they should plant something,” said education and awareness programmes by towards the natural world around There are calls for the government to is good that the Langkawi Development the doctor who wants to marry “It is their future. If we don’t teach them LADA in the future. them.” ensure children in schools are educated in Authority (LADA) - the custodian of the modern medicine with traditional about the condition of the environment the importance of appreciating and geopark - is doing its part to promote Malay medicine to help people. now, there will be no future. As parents, protecting their natural beauty and conservation. we should make sure the world we leave cultural heritage. Dr Ghani is a well-known personal- them is also a world as beautiful as the LADA recently organised the Geopark ity in Langkawi, where he had Trained medical doctor and traditional Conservation Day that attracted a crowd served as a doctor for over 30 Malay and Islamic medical researcher Dr of over 2,000 schoolchildren, youths, civil years. Abdul Ghani Hussain says people have servants, naturalists and NGOs.The event lost the sense of wanting to conserve and highlighted the importance of conserva- He is now working with traditional preserve nature, and are “destroying tion and promoted green practices like Malay and Islamic medicine. Since nature all the time”. not using plastic bags. 2000, he has been collecting medicinal plants. He has over 500 Dr Ghani, a herb specialist who champi- Dr Ghani says it is a good start in making different species now, but he is still ons the conservation and preservation of people more aware of the need to protect growing his collection. the flora of Langkawi, in particular, the Langkawi’s natural heritage, but conserva- mangrove and medicinal flora; says tion efforts must be a daily affair. He also conducts walks that development has negative impact on educate people about the healing BIRD MAN Langkawi, and also Malaysia that is one of “On our part as citizens, we should be powers of local herbs and plants. the most bio-diversified nations in the conserving nature on a daily basis. I go world. into the forest to collect plants of medicinal values. of Langkawi

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 34 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 35 Advisor Advisor

Geopark Heroes & Personalities Geopark Heroes & Personalities

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 34 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 35 Bird Map

Langkawi Map

Brahminy Kite Eagle Brown Winged King sher Eastern Cattle Egret Whistling Ducks Reed Warblers Photo Greg Schneider

Blue Throated Bee Eater Spotted Doves Great Slaty Woodpecker Mountain Hawk Eagle Crimson Sunbird Photo Andy_LYT Photo Dr Lim Ho Min Photo Carl-Johan Svensson

The Great Hornbill Orange-breasted Trogon Asian Fairy Bluebird Photo Ingo Waschkies

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 36 Advisor

Bird Map Geopark Heroes & Personalities

His group chat members are action-ori- Q An action that gained traction has entated, they acted on what they resulted in a Langkawi Dialogue event complained about and recently, a group that was held in your Frangipani Resort. MR GREEN met at a Langkawi Dialogue event in Can you tell how resolutions passed November to discuss, solicit views and have a bearing that will enhance the LANGKAWI seek remedial actions to improve the wellbeing of Langkawi UNESCO Global tourism landscape. SUSTAINABLE CHAT GROUP A to educate even the religious leaders about You started the Sustainable Langkawi ost chat groups are a shared Q Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark and the chat group which now has almost 300 need to have sustainability. Education is the Mconcern with their common members. Can you elaborate why you key. objective; they are filled with postings decided to do this at this point in time? for laughs and update on club and societal issues. A I started the chat group to educate as many Q On your own part, you have fought for people as possible on sustainability and to Go Green and No to Plastic. Tell us your None or few are taken seriously.Yet alert them of serious issues facing Langkawi views why the private sector should be fewer can claim to have a broad island. We speak out on local issues and raise more aggressive to promote this ideal. funds to support charity and social issues. representation that engages decision makers and NGOs to the common A The private sector have to do more as they man. are the main benefactor and thus must Q The chat group counts among the make time and spend money to help in participants several key government greening to safeguard Langkawi’s future. The Langkawi Sustainable chat group chooses to be different, that is how its constructive criticisms. Has it been founder Anthony Wong, the Frangipani action and what examples can you tell us. Q You may want to share what and how Resort Managing Director, sees it. Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark would take tourism in the island to the A next level? Langkawi Map The deep concern for the future of a toes and they take actions. They are more sustainable Langkawi UNESCO Global aware of what’s happening and they know Geopark was the trigger that prompt- their actions will be scrutinized as more A We need to really push the theme Naturally ed him to act to seek consensus from people in the chat group are watching. We work closely with LADA to obtain the Last month, an illegal bar was opened on the this diverse chat members. renewal of its Geopark status and support side of my beach resort and after I posted a many of its sustainable projects. With almost 300 chat members, this bar was dismantled the next day. Very It is about going low carbon by using chat group acts as a de-facto medium electric for the exchange of ideas, a platform supply, green energy and practise rainwater Another incident was when 600 Rohingyas where topical issues are raised and harvesting. It is also about growing own and Bangladeshis landed in Langkawi and organic food, treating our sea with respect feedback channeled to chat members the Police OCPD contacted me through the without sewage discharges. those who have the authority to act or chat group and I provided food and drinks to Brahminy Kite Eagle Brown Winged King sher Eastern Cattle Egret Whistling Ducks Reed Warblers Photo Greg Schneider take remedial action. them before they came to help out. We are There must be a height limit for beachfront the bridge to help the needy. buildings, no more forest clearing and the In the Langkawi Sustainable chat need to maintain 60% forest cover on the main island. Equally important is the need group are senior key government Q Can awareness trigger action, which for some would be against their vested to continue to educate school children, the officers, academicians, tourism opera- interests? local community and also government tors and owners, NGOs, universities, bodies about sustainability. media, hotel managers and MAH,Trash A If they are illegal, even with or without vested Hero, Rotary Club members and interest, and they know it is wrong, they fishermen. cannot hide.

Blue Throated Bee Eater Spotted Doves Great Slaty Woodpecker Mountain Hawk Eagle Crimson Sunbird Photo Andy_LYT Photo Dr Lim Ho Min Photo Carl-Johan Svensson

The Great Hornbill Orange-breasted Trogon Asian Fairy Bluebird Photo Ingo Waschkies

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 36 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 37 Advisor

Geopark Heroes & Personalities

BIODEGRADABLE TABLEWARE Mutiara Atiqah for recyclable Langkawi recognized as an UNESCO plates and containers Global Geopark is the right place to ood services, hotel and start banning use of plastic bags. Fmedical disposable specialist company Mutiara Atiqah also “Penang has banned plastic bags participated at the Geopark Conser- years ago, causing many retailers to vation Day in November, promoting switch to paper bags and the public the use of biodegradable materials in to bring their own reusable bags place of plastic to cut down waste. when they go shopping. I don’t understand why we are not doing Company managing director this everywhere. Sukmawati Buyong says her company wanted to help raise awareness “Being an island, it should be easier among Langkawi residents that it is for Langkawi to introduce the idea better to switch to biodegradable and implement it. It should be easier materials. for the authorities to control.” Sukmawati was at her stall that Most Malaysians are still dependent showcased biodegradable tableware. on plastic bags and other plastic materials, which contributed to There are plans to turn Langkawi into pollution. Malaysia’s first low-carbon island. T

woman’s campaign to clean up A changed the mindset of long-staying expatriates but also the local community. TRASH HEROES Today, Trash Hero Langkawi which Ulrika PICKING TRASH IS NOT DIRTY WORK. Player set up on November 16, 2015, aims to give people the chance to do something themselves for the environment. cleanup actually change their Her campaign has got the support of behaviour. They think twice before the local authorities and local It wasn’t an easy start getting people to throwing trash.” businesses, which donated gloves, dirty their hands. But perseverance aided trash bags and lunches for volunteers. by social media publicity drew people's To date, Trash Hero Langkawi has attention and convince them to do their organised 52 cleanups with 851 Support also comes from schools part for Langkawi's cleanliness. volunteers and picked up a total which invited Trash Hero Langkawi 14,306 kg of rubbish - which is an and its fellow volunteers to talk to Player wrote postings on Trash Hero average 275kg per cleanup. students on the importance of Facebook page and sent them to every preserving Langkawi's trees and social media group she could find in The largest outing was attended by conserving its water source and Langkawi, reaching a few thousand people 149 people while its biggest cleanup nature and to say no to plastic bags, at a time. collected 5,000kg of rubbish that filled straws, cups and Styrofoam products. up three lorries. Trash Hero has over a thousand people "I joined Universiti Utara Malaysia following its Facebook page helping to Player rides around Langkawi on her students for a cleanup in August and promote the page and its green efforts to motorcycle to identify locations - the students are now keen to set up their friends. beaches, villages and roads - for the their own Trash Hero UUM on weekly cleanups. campus. There is now a core group of volunteers who go around to put up posters, talk to The cleanups are done with help from "We are having a similar programme people and invite them to join the cause. staff of a private rubbish collector, with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Environment Idaman. "Our greatest achievement so far is having students. Hopefully, there will be a more than 800 people volunteering to help Trash Hero UKM in the near future." clean up Langkawi. Those who join a - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 38 Advisor

Geopark Heroes & Personalities Supports & Developments

BIODEGRADABLE TABLEWARE Langkawi UNESCO Mutiara Atiqah for recyclable ASPIRING GEOPARKS Langkawi recognized as an UNESCO Global Geopark plates and containers Global Geopark is the right place to ood services, hotel and start banning use of plastic bags. Advisor Fmedical disposable specialist company Mutiara Atiqah also “Penang has banned plastic bags participated at the Geopark Conser- years ago, causing many retailers to rofessor Emeritus Dato' Dr Ibrahim Komoo vation Day in November, promoting switch to paper bags and the public Phas been appointed Langkawi UNESCO the use of biodegradable materials in to bring their own reusable bags Global Geopark advisor by Langkawi Devel- opment Authority (LADA) for a five-year place of plastic to cut down waste. when they go shopping. I don’t Delta Sarawak understand why we are not doing tenure. Company managing director this everywhere. Sukmawati Buyong says her compa- He provides advice on the global geopark's ny wanted to help raise awareness “Being an island, it should be easier development from the technical and scientific among Langkawi residents that it is for Langkawi to introduce the idea aspect to ensure Langkawi continues to better to switch to biodegradable and implement it. It should be easier spearhead the geopark vision in the South- materials. for the authorities to control.” east Asian region. Sukmawati was at her stall that Most Malaysians are still dependent Among other responsibilities, Ibrahim will showcased biodegradable tableware. Lake Kenyir, Terengganu on plastic bags and other plastic continue to contribute his technical and Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. materials, which contributed to There are plans to turn Langkawi into scientific inputs to ensure the success of the pollution. Malaysia’s first low-carbon island. Kubang Badak geo-tourism project, which is Ibrahim continues to promote the being developed as a high-end tourism Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark product as well as to make it the model for internationally in the Asia-Pacific T geo-tourism best practices in global geoparks. Geoparks Network and UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. He has also given his input on the development of the Pulau Tuba GeoTrail to grow the His position requires him to visit the Gunung Jerai, Kedah third-largest island's tourism sector by LADA office two to three times a month woman’s campaign to clean up building geo-tourism sites, engaging the local and attend important events to help A changed the mindset of long-staying community, and maintaining the geo-trail increase the knowledge and capacity of expatriates but also the local community. sustainably. LADA Geopark and Conservation TRASH HEROES Division staff and other parties of Today, Trash Hero Langkawi which Ulrika PICKING TRASH IS NOT DIRTY WORK. He also advises LADA on developing the interest like government agencies, Player set up on November 16, 2015, aims Geopark Discovery Centre in Kilim and the tourism entrepreneurs and the local to give people the chance to do something preparation of public education materials on community. themselves for the environment. cleanup actually change their Her campaign has got the support of behaviour. They think twice before the local authorities and local Mount Kinabalu, Sabah It wasn’t an easy start getting people to throwing trash.” businesses, which donated gloves, geopark - the Langkawi UNESCO Global dirty their hands. But perseverance aided trash bags and lunches for volunteers. Prof Ibrahim elected Vice Geopark. by social media publicity drew people's To date, Trash Hero Langkawi has President of UNESCO Global attention and convince them to do their organised 52 cleanups with 851 Support also comes from schools At the event, Malaysia's renowned part for Langkawi's cleanliness. volunteers and picked up a total which invited Trash Hero Langkawi Geopark Network geologist Professor Emeritus Ibrahim 14,306 kg of rubbish - which is an and its fellow volunteers to talk to Player wrote postings on Trash Hero Komoo, who was instrumental in average 275kg per cleanup. students on the importance of The seventh UNESCO Global Geoparks Interna- Facebook page and sent them to every making Langkawi a UNESCO Global preserving Langkawi's trees and tional Conference was held at the English social media group she could find in Geopark, was elected Vice President of The largest outing was attended by conserving its water source and Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark in Torquay, Gua Tempurung, Perak Langkawi, reaching a few thousand people the Global Geoparks Network (GGN). 149 people while its biggest cleanup nature and to say no to plastic bags, United Kingdom, in September 2016. at a time. collected 5,000kg of rubbish that filled straws, cups and Styrofoam products. The presidency of the new GGN up three lorries. The conference, held once every two years, was Trash Hero has over a thousand people "I joined Universiti Utara Malaysia executive council, which will spearhead attended by over 600 delegates from 60 following its Facebook page helping to Player rides around Langkawi on her students for a cleanup in August and the development of the UNESCO Global nations, who presented almost 250 technical promote the page and its green efforts to motorcycle to identify locations - the students are now keen to set up Geopark from 2016 to 2019, went to papers - sharing ideas and experience on their friends. beaches, villages and roads - for the their own Trash Hero UUM on Professor Nickolas Zouros from Greece. developing and managing their respective weekly cleanups. campus. There is now a core group of volunteers geoparks. The eighth international conference on who go around to put up posters, talk to The cleanups are done with help from "We are having a similar programme UNESCO Global Geoparks will be held people and invite them to join the cause. The international meet had special meaning to staff of a private rubbish collector, with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia in September 2018 in Italy's Adamello Environment Idaman. Malaysia, which was represented by its sole "Our greatest achievement so far is having students. Hopefully, there will be a Brenta UNESCO Global Geopark. more than 800 people volunteering to help Trash Hero UKM in the near future." clean up Langkawi. Those who join a - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 38 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 39 Supports & Developments

MUROTO UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK Where the ocean and the land meet for the birth of a new habitable land

uroto UNESCO Global Geopark is plate subduction and uplift of land. The 125,000 years ago. The tectonic situa- Mlocated in the southwestern part of Shikoku Island is also affected by an tion still causes earthquakes accompa- Japan, on Shikoku Island. It includes all of east-west compression, triggering nied with tsunamis at an interval of 100 Muroto City, Kochi Prefecture. The geopark uplifting of the Cape Muroto and Cape to 150 years. covers an area of 248.2 square kilometers, Ashizuri and subsidence of Tosa Bay. stretching 18.6 km east to west, 27 km Cape Muroto is being uplifted by 1 to 2 Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark has north to south, with 53.3 km of coastline. m per 1000 years, which is among the established good relations with Langka- Muroto is notorious for being subject to world’s top-class uplift rates. Marine wi UNESCO Global Geopark since 2012 frequent typhoons which occur in the terraces have developed near the by cooperating in mutual information Philippine Sea. The typhoons often cause coastline, with terrace plains on top at exchange, internet communication serious damage with heavy rain and wind 180 m above present sea level, which program of guides, exchanges in the in summer and autumn. formed at the Last Interglacial period, areas of handicrafts, drawing and letter-writing. Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark is located on the subduction zone where the Philip- pine Sea plate subducts under the Eurasian plate. The land of Muroto is formed from the layers at the bottom of deep sea by plate tectonic movements. At the Nankai Trough, 140 km off Cape Muroto, the Philippine Sea Plate is subducting beneath the Eurasian Plate. Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark is underlain by an accretionary complex of around 50 million to 16 million years ago formed at the plate boundary. The sediments of the Nankai Trough are attached to the continental plate to form a mass of built-up sedimentary rock, called an accretionary complex, part of which is exposed on Cape Muroto for visitors to see and touch. The subduction process also caused a gabbroic magma intrusion and weak metamorphism in the sandstone/mudstone layers. The wedge-shaped cape of Muroto was formed by the oceanic

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 40 Supports & Developments Supports & Developments DONGVAN THE GLOBAL GEOPARK ROCK SONATE

ong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global DGeopark (DVG) is located in northeastern part of Vietnam, 320km from Hanoi and MUROTO UNESCO shares 176km of borders with China in the GLOBAL GEOPARK West and North. With its unique geographical position, DVG Where the ocean plays the hedging role for Vietnam and is an important economic, social and national Mapileng Pass and the land meet for security gateway. the birth of a DVG covers all administrative boundaries of four districts namely Quan Ba, Yen Minh, new habitable land Dong Van, and Meo Vac which are among the 62 poorest districts of the country with a total natural area of 2,326sq km, of which mountainous terrain accounts for 80% of the area. Twin moutain uroto UNESCO Global Geopark is plate subduction and uplift of land. The 125,000 years ago. The tectonic situa- DVG has an average elevation of 1,400m to Mlocated in the southwestern part of Shikoku Island is also affected by an tion still causes earthquakes accompa- 1,600m above sea level and is inhabited by Japan, on Shikoku Island. It includes all of east-west compression, triggering nied with tsunamis at an interval of 100 17 ethnic groups with over 250,000 people life, coupled with harsh climate where In particular, "Khau Vai love market" is a Muroto City, Kochi Prefecture. The geopark uplifting of the Cape Muroto and Cape to 150 years. that account for nearly one-third of the winters are cold. unique traditional festival. Other covers an area of 248.2 square kilometers, Ashizuri and subsidence of Tosa Bay. provincial population. The area’s most famous festival are "Gau Tao" of the stretching 18.6 km east to west, 27 km Cape Muroto is being uplifted by 1 to 2 Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark has difficult conditions are the shortage of Despite the harsh natural conditions Mong ethnic group held in the begin- north to south, with 53.3 km of coastline. m per 1000 years, which is among the established good relations with Langka- arable land, water for production and daily and extreme climate, DVG is endowed ning of the new year, "Forest Spirit Holy" Muroto is notorious for being subject to world’s top-class uplift rates. Marine wi UNESCO Global Geopark since 2012 with the most spectacular natural of the Pu Peo ethnic group, and ”Cap frequent typhoons which occur in the terraces have developed near the by cooperating in mutual information scenery and mountains in Vietnam and Sac” of Dao. Philippine Sea. The typhoons often cause coastline, with terrace plains on top at exchange, internet communication also in Southeast Asia, where its serious damage with heavy rain and wind 180 m above present sea level, which program of guides, exchanges in the geological, geomorphologic values and In the Geopark, there are old buildings in summer and autumn. formed at the Last Interglacial period, areas of handicrafts, drawing and biological diversity are recognized which are hundreds of years old, such as letter-writing. nationally and internationally. the Mong King’s Palace; and those in the Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark is located Old Town district of Dong Van. on the subduction zone where the Philip- Officially a member of the Global pine Sea plate subducts under the Eurasian Geoparks Network (GGN) since 2010, Within the Dong Van UNESCO Global plate. The land of Muroto is formed from Dong Van Global Geopark has charac- Geopark are the Du Gia National Park the layers at the bottom of deep sea by teristics of a Karst system of the and Khau Ca Spices Natural Reserve, Bat plate tectonic movements. At the Nankai Himalayan Range. The mountains here Dai Son Nature Reserve and San Chi Trough, 140 km off Cape Muroto, the have features such as sharply-cut, deep Natural Reserve. Philippine Sea Plate is subducting beneath and narrow gorges, steep cliffs and the Eurasian Plate. Muroto UNESCO Global towering mountains, the pyramids like The Geopark has a diversity of animal Geopark is underlain by an accretionary peaks and caves and rock gardens. They and plant systems with lots of rare trees, Tu San Canyon complex of around 50 million to 16 million are named such as Tu San Canyon, Ma birds and reptiles. The snub-nosed years ago formed at the plate boundary. Le stone forest, Trilobite fossils, Brachio- monkey (Rhinopithecus avunculus) is The sediments of the Nankai Trough are pod fossils, Twin Mountain of Quan Ba, one of the 25 primate species which is attached to the continental plate to form a Lung Khuy cave, Kho My cave, etc. in danger of extinction in the world. mass of built-up sedimentary rock, called an accretionary complex, part of which is DVG has extremely rich culture of 17 The unique combination of geological exposed on Cape Muroto for visitors to see ethnic groups and is an attractive and heritage value, high biological and touch. The subduction process also destination for tourists and researchers diversity and long-standing cultural caused a gabbroic magma intrusion and and conducive for people who want to traditions of the indigenous communi- weak metamorphism in the sand- get involved in the management, ties make the Dong Van Global Geopark stone/mudstone layers. The wedge-shaped protection and promotion of heritage a unique tourism destination, attracting cape of Muroto was formed by the oceanic Back from farmer market values for economic development and 800,000 tourists mainly locals each year. sustainable poverty reduction.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 40 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 41 Advisor

Activities & Events Activities & Events ECO-SPORTS TOURISM Eco-sports activities are drawing the This race is held since year 2000 This trail will be opened exclusively for world’s attention to Langkawi UNESCO testing athletes who are out to prove the Mt. Mat Chinchang SkyBridge Global Geopark. that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE® by Climb on raceday and will be a truly crossing finish lines at the world’s most unique way to discover the hidden These activities held almost every challenging endurance races. jewels of Mt. Mat Chinchang. other month drew not only locals but also many foreign participants from all Tanjung Rhu SwimFest in December The open waters of the 99 magical over the world. is an open water swimming competi- islands in the archipelago of Langkawi tion staged. Swimmers take part in also provides sailing enthusiasts the The Tuba Trail Run over 30km in April three categories; a 2km route for opportunities of racing in three At the Revive Unity Green Festival Langkawi 2016, participants took part in a two-day family showcases some of Langkawi’s budding swimmers, and the 4km and regattas. They are the Royal Langkawi event lled with green awareness activities, talks, mini-exhibition, music, and of course, food. spectacular natural wonders and 6km routes for multi-sport athletes International Regatta, Raja Muda amazing landscapes. Runners get up including triathletes, and long distance International Regatta and KFC Langka- close with the nature and wildlife of swim enthusiasts. wi International Regatta Perdana & Geopark-related Activities the Langkawi Geopark at the less ASAF Sailing Cup. explored islands of Pulau Tuba and As Tanjung Rhu beach is close to the romoting the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark and engaging Pulau Dayang Bunting. seas of Thailand, swimmers are taking P people are constant affairs for Langkawi Development Authority part in the first international open (LADA). It participated by taking up booths to display Geopark informa- The 2017 edition will offer three varied water swimming event. tion during local, national and international events in Langkawi. distances, including a 4km fun run, a new 15km route and the 30km route Mt. Mat Chinchang SkyBridge Climb to cater to runners of all levels. in February 2017 is a 4.5km climb that The semi-final leg of the Miss Tourism runners the chance to see the less Selangor Roadshow promotion finishes at the peak of the mountain International pageant was successfully explored island, which is being programme in October. The Ultra Marathon over 50km or after passing the cable car’s Middle staged here with 60 finalists from 60 developed as a new eco- and 100km in July takes runners along the Station, crossing the length of the countries vying for the beauty queen geo-tourism attraction to nature-lov- Other events that showcased Langkawi route that winds through paddy fields, renowned SkyBridge as well as title in December 2016. Their participa- ing visitors. earlier this year were the Langkawi forest and beaches; providing one of climbing up to the Top Station. tion in two separate performances - Silat Excellence Awards 2016, 'My Community the most unique ultra marathon race martial art and Tai Chi - netted two LADA also took part during the Langkawi Geopark 2016' programme, experiences. Malaysia Book of Records for having the Langkawi Honda Day JDM Motorsport launch of the Langkawi UNESCO Global most number of nations taking part in 2016, the Asia Pacific Postal Union Geopark's new logo, 'Meet the Customer Ironman Malaysia in November is the world’s toughest Ironman race. Over the performances on the Sky Bridge, Executive Council Meeting Langkawi Day' with the Tourism Ministry, Tourism Ironman athletes taking part 1,000 runners compete to earn the title 650m above sea level. 2016, the Malaysia UNESCO Day Open Day, 'Mai Langkawi' domestic in the rst leg of the event celebration, and the Langkawi promotion campaign, Merdeka Day of Ironman by competing in a 3.8km which is the 3.8km swim at The inaugural Tanjung Rhu Swim Fest International Laksa Carnival (LILAC Fishing Competition, Langkawi Youth swim, 50km run and 180km cycling Pantai Kok in Langkawi in was held with 210 swimmers from five 2016 ) in May. Carnival, Finance Ministry Sports Festival route. November 2016. nations taking part. Tanjung Rhu beach and Langkawi Geo Products Carnival. was chosen as the venue to showcase To push the green and conservation the beauty of the coastline and beautiful agenda in Langkawi, LADA also took seascape there. part in the YaHijau Langkawi Carnival - an initiative of the Malaysian Energy, LADA also participated in international Green Technology and Water Ministry sporting events like the Langkawi - in October. Ironman 2016 triathlon in November and the first Tuba Trail Run 2016 earlier in LADA also promoted Langkawi at the LADA CEO Datuk Azizan Noordin congratulat- April. Kedah Travel Fair in September, and ing a winner of the inaugural Tanjung Rhu Swimfest 2016 race held in December 2016. The triathlon in Langkawi, the second most challenging Ironman race in the world, drew over 1,000 athletes from 63 countries. Langkawi has been hosting the Ironman challenge since 2000. Participants of Langkawi Open Chess Meanwhile, the 30km run on Pulau Tuba, Tournament 2016 held at Dewan Myangkasa Sixty beauty contestants in a group Langkawi's third largest island, gave Akademi & Resort in October exposed to the photograph outside 3D Art Museum in need to conserve and practice responsible Oriental Village during the semi- nals leg of Runners started their 30km race at the hundreds of local and international tourism." the Miss Tourism International 2016 pageant. Tuba Trail Run in April 2016.

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 42 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 43 Advisor

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 42 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 43 Activities & Events Activities & Events

Malaysia hosts South African nations Other courses like those on occupa- seeking UNESCO Biosphere Reserve During the ancient Kedah Tua Civilisa- SUSTAINABLE to share knowledge, boost ties, tional safety were also conducted status. tion, iron was smelted in Sungai Batu discuss global issues faced by with the Malaysian Department of and traded by Indian, Chinese and Arab PRACTICE IS Other eco-tourism products are Madu developing countries, and promote Occupational Safety and Health merchants. It reached the Roman Empire Kelulut, Oyster Farming, Organic Paddy THE KEY Langkawi tourism. (DOSH) where it was used to make the wheels of and Permaculture activities along its chariots that helped Rome expanded he promotion of Langkawi as a Sungai Merbok and Pulau Bidan, "We also had one dialogue on Niagakawi is also conducting a safety its empire. UNESCO Global Geopark relies Tsunami Gallery and Forestry Museum. T sustainable tourism, and another training programme with the Marine heavily on tourism players and Interestingly tourists visit these sites Sungai Batu showcased the early iron coming up on organic padi farming," Department to train, educate and entrepreneurs, who often work hand PILING ON LADA'S GOOD WORK under the Volunteer Tourism smelting technology as this area was he says. issue licenses to up to 100 boat in hand with the Langkawi Develop- programme. known before in Sanskrit as "Kataha" the helmsmen to address the shortage. ment Authority in programmes that Niagakawi has conducted many lans are in the pipeline to leverage ancient Kedah. engage the local community and courses on areas like sustainable Pon the state’s recent overseas The state of Kedah is also going big on "It means you are making sure your visitors. businesses, and is now trying to promotion of the new archaeological archaeo-tourism with the recent Kedah Tua Kingdom at Sungai Batu is guests are safe when they sail with promote organic farming, which will finding of the oldest civilization in excavation findings of the oldest the cradle of civilization in Southeast you," he says. Tour operators are doing much have long-term benefits for Langkawi. Southeast Asia in Sungai Batu in the civilization in Southeast Asia in Sungai Asia and has been chronometrically more than just introducing Langka- mainland to attract hi-end tourists to Batu. Nearby is the Merbok Archaeolog- dated as early as 535 BC, making it even wi as a premier eco- and geo-tour- extend their stay to visit Langkawi island ical Museum and oldest skeletal older than that of Angkor Wat in Cambo- ism destination. They are sharing the and vice-versa. remains of Perak Man in nearby Leng- dia and Borobudur Buddhist temple in government's efforts to educate gong Archaeological Museum. Central Java, Indonesia, built in the 9th their peers and the children of “The state will cross promote Langkawi and 12th Century respectively. Langkawi on the important values UNESCO Global Geopark and Sungai “Tour packages, together with a trip to such as sustainable practices. Batu’s Kedah Tua Kingdom in the Langkawi, will make a visit to Kedah a Sungai Batu’s archaeological marvel, mainland. We hope to unlock the complete adventure, hence it is a visit to Angkor Wat and Borobudur will feature Langkawi Business Association tourism potentials of the aspiring where it all began," says Kedah Aman prominently as part of the World Archeo (Niagakawi) deputy president Datuk Gunung Jerai Geopark and Sungai Makmur Tourism Chief Executive Officer Heritage Trail at this year's Visit Alexander I. says the association is Merbok mangrove forest, which is Dato’ Zulkifli Mohamad. Asean@50 campaign. involved in dialogues and organising courses that add value to what tourism operators offer guests.

Niagakawi is involved in the Langka- ALL EAGLES IN ONE PLACE wi International Dialogue, where @ WILDLIFE PARK LANGKAWI rahminy Kite, the eagle emblem of NiagaKawi’s safety training programme to upgrade skills of 100 boat helmsmen Langkawi, white-bellied sea eagles and in collaboration with Marine Department. B hornbills fly in the wild.

Sightings are common when you cruise along the mangrove swamps in Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and Kubang Badak a new geo-tourism destination. Elsewhere, MALAYSIAN sightings of the eagles – birds of prey - are NATURE SOCIETY a chance encounter. alaysian Nature Society Langkawi and yet we are so ignorant. We are lucky At Wildlife Park Langkawi, you are able to Mchairman Eric R. Sinnaya says that we have LADA to manage the get to feed and touch them during show Langkawi is blessed with bio-diversity geopark because it has government times everyday. and rich geological heritage but there is funding for activities like educational not enough education in schools to programmes for the community. Visit the park to get close and personal teach children to appreciate the world with other fauna of Langkawi. The petting Sinnaya calls for better coordination around them. zones are popular with kids. Zoo volun- among government agencies when it teers and staff are helpful with information “Schoolchildren are change agents who comes to protecting and preserving of these birds and animals there. will be able to look after the environ- Langkawi’s natural heritage since LADA ment better than their parents if they itself has no enforcement power. Through Corporate Social Responsibility are properly educated on conservation. projects like Zoo volunteer programmes and ticket sponsorships outside Kedah, “Even by picking up waste at home, Schoolchildren learnt to look after Park General Manager John Teoh says, the the environment. these kids will have some impact on Wildlife Park Langkawi has helped to their families. There is so much to learn, encourage locals to visit Langkawi to get to know more about its UNESCO Global - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 44 Geopark status. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 1745 Activities & Events

seeking UNESCO Biosphere Reserve During the ancient Kedah Tua Civilisa- status. tion, iron was smelted in Sungai Batu and traded by Indian, Chinese and Arab Other eco-tourism products are Madu merchants. It reached the Roman Empire Kelulut, Oyster Farming, Organic Paddy where it was used to make the wheels of and Permaculture activities along its chariots that helped Rome expanded Sungai Merbok and Pulau Bidan, its empire. Tsunami Gallery and Forestry Museum. Interestingly tourists visit these sites Sungai Batu showcased the early iron PILING ON LADA'S GOOD WORK under the Volunteer Tourism smelting technology as this area was programme. known before in Sanskrit as "Kataha" the lans are in the pipeline to leverage ancient Kedah. Pon the state’s recent overseas The state of Kedah is also going big on promotion of the new archaeological archaeo-tourism with the recent Kedah Tua Kingdom at Sungai Batu is finding of the oldest civilization in excavation findings of the oldest the cradle of civilization in Southeast Southeast Asia in Sungai Batu in the civilization in Southeast Asia in Sungai Asia and has been chronometrically mainland to attract hi-end tourists to Batu. Nearby is the Merbok Archaeolog- dated as early as 535 BC, making it even extend their stay to visit Langkawi island ical Museum and oldest skeletal older than that of Angkor Wat in Cambo- and vice-versa. remains of Perak Man in nearby Leng- dia and Borobudur Buddhist temple in gong Archaeological Museum. Central Java, Indonesia, built in the 9th “The state will cross promote Langkawi and 12th Century respectively. UNESCO Global Geopark and Sungai “Tour packages, together with a trip to Batu’s Kedah Tua Kingdom in the Langkawi, will make a visit to Kedah a Sungai Batu’s archaeological marvel, mainland. We hope to unlock the complete adventure, hence it is a visit to Angkor Wat and Borobudur will feature tourism potentials of the aspiring where it all began," says Kedah Aman prominently as part of the World Archeo Gunung Jerai Geopark and Sungai Makmur Tourism Chief Executive Officer Heritage Trail at this year's Visit Merbok mangrove forest, which is Dato’ Zulkifli Mohamad. Asean@50 campaign.

ALL EAGLES IN ONE PLACE @ WILDLIFE PARK LANGKAWI rahminy Kite, the eagle emblem of B Langkawi, white-bellied sea eagles and hornbills fly in the wild.

Sightings are common when you cruise along the mangrove swamps in Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and Kubang Badak a new geo-tourism destination. Elsewhere, sightings of the eagles – birds of prey - are a chance encounter.

At Wildlife Park Langkawi, you are able to get to feed and touch them during show times everyday.

Visit the park to get close and personal with other fauna of Langkawi. The petting zones are popular with kids. Zoo volunteers and staff are helpful with information of these birds and animals there.

Through Corporate Social Responsibility projects like Zoo volunteer programmes and ticket sponsorships outside Kedah, Park General Manager John Teoh says, the Wildlife Park Langkawi has helped to encourage locals to visit Langkawi to get to know more about its UNESCO Global Geopark status. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 1745 Advisor

Activities & Events Activities & Events

Exotic food IN LANGKAWI Geopark tour guide Othman Ayeb is a “We see Arabic and Indian designs in her art and come out with creative model dad to 18-year-old daughter Nur henna art almost all the time. I want to ideas that could promote Langkawi ood is aplenty in Langkawi and stage, the sea cucumber, which is Wahyu Ramadah Othman. do something a little different. and its geological heritage. F visitors are often spoilt for choice originally the size of a forearm, would with the hundreds of restaurants and have shrunk to the size of a thumb. This collegiate girl is doing her part to “I want to draw designs that represent “I am trying out other designs. Maybe I food stalls offering different types of promote Langkawai UNESCO Global my home,” says the self-taught artist, can get inspiration from Langkawi’s cuisine. Then, it is mixed with fried coconut Geopark by drawing designs that feature who has been practising her henna art rock formation, mangrove forests, the kernel, chopped chillies, lemongrass, patterns of trilobite and gastropod on her sisters and friends since she eagles, snakes, corals, and other Seafood is popular and those who mango and cashew nut leaves. The fossils found in the geopark. was 13. species that are endemic to Langkawi.” want to taste dishes unique to Langka- combination of ingredients make the wi will have to try the 'Beronok' - a sea Beronok salad a tasty appetiser. This Spa management student is Nur Wahyu, who dreams of opening cucumber that is picked from the introducing Langkawi-inspired henna art her own art studio one day, says her muddy swamplands on Pulau Tuba. Locals also eat a seasonal green after her dad, a nature guide and snake parents - both Geopark Ambassadors - seaweed they call 'lattut', which is salty expert. have been encouraging her to develop When harvested, only the translucent and crunchy to the palate. ones are chosen. Those that are yellow The teen showcased her skills at henna or brown are old and will not taste Beronok salad It is harvested near the Kilim Karst art at local carnivals and events and took good. Geoforest Park. It can be eaten raw like a part in the recent Geopark Conservation salad or served together with barbe- Day event organised by Langkawi The beronok can only be served cued fish and sambal. Development Authority (LADA) at Taman uncook because the sea cucumber Legenda in November. Henna- that is 80% water will shrink substan- Another specialty in Langkawi is 'gamat' tially when exposed to heat. So, locals soup made of sea cucumber. It is usually “We see Arabic and Indian designs in serve the Beronok raw in a salad they painting prepared with chicken, Chinese mush- henna art almost all the time. I want to call 'Kerabu Beronok'. INSPIRED BY rooms, ginger and garlic. do something a little different. LANGKAWI FOSSIL DESIGNS To make it, the sea cucumber is cut These dishes can be found in Malay “I want to draw designs that represent into halves and washed. Then it is Latutt eaten raw as salad restaurants and food stalls in Langkawi. my home,” says the self-taught artist, chopped up and washed again. At this who has been practising her henna art on her sisters and friends since she was mother, Azlina Ahmad, is a LADA 13. Geolicious Cookies (Langkawi Development Authority) Geopark Ambassador and tourist guide. he look and feel of the cookies is Incorporating the 3P concept of Planet, geopark inspired. T People and Profit, Geo Café started These unusual cookies creation is operations in June this year to raise every bite of the tasty cookies will available at Sky Cab Souvenir Boutique awareness, understanding and appre- make you come back for more. and at Geo Café at Seven Wells Water- ciation of nature and its sustainability. fall near Oriental Village. That is why, the Geo Menu is created to Patrons have given the cookies a thumbs up and now the Café serves At Geo Café, you can savour a wide highlight the importance of every Geo-Food, Geo- Juices and organises range of cuisine listed in its Geo-Menu. element and component in Langkawi PATA Travel Mart 2018 in Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. Every rock educational Geo-Nature activities. Geo-Cookies, as they are called, are formation, every fossil site, every flora, Soon, there will be Geo-Souvenir and Malaysia will play host to the next Pacific shaped after Langkawi’s unique every fauna, every cultural practice and more. Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart ancient fossils, interesting different 2018 in Langkawi next year. every myth must be protected, be “Celebrate life by giving and loving,” types of rocks and the exotic educated, and be preserved for the says Azlina who would like to chip in As the leading voice of tourism in Asia landscape of Langkawi. next generation. and do her part to keep Langkawi Pacific, the annual Travel Mart organised by Whereas, the Geo-Menu are inspired “This is a small contribution of conser- clean and beautiful. PATA brings thousands of delegates to converge in a single tourism destination. by Langkawi’s famous landmarks such vation by us, especially when we are as the Pulau Dayang Bunting (Preg- living in a place of geological wonders PATA CEO Dr Mario Hardy said delegates nant Maiden Island), Gunung Mat that is almost as old as the earth,” says will experience one of Asia’s most remark- Chincang (Mat Chinchang Mountain), Fatimah. able and attractive destinations. It is an Gua Kelawar (Bats Cave), Kilim Karst opportunity for legendary Langkawi to Pinnacles etc. Just throw them any questions about showcase its culture, heritage, and beauty Langkawi and you will be amazed by of its archipelago of 99 islands. The Geo Café is the brainchild of their tales of wonders, that are as old Universiti Utara Malaysia business as time. Every legend, every story, Langkawi, described as the ‘Isle of Legends’ graduate Fatimah Shafiqah. Her every sip of the delicious coffee and Various types of geo-cookies that and ‘Jewel of Kedah’, is one of the world’s take the shape of Geopark rock great paradise island getaways. A magnet - GEOPARK GAZETTE - formations. 46 for international eco-tourism, Langkawi is a 47 UNESCO Global Geopark. Advisor

Activities & Events Activities & Events

- GEOPARK GAZETTE - 48 Langkawi Map Activities & Events

Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark celebrates 10th anniversary Langkawi Development Authority community to appreciate the achieve- (LADA) has drawn up a series of ment of its 10th anniversary on June 7. activities to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Langkawi UNESCO Global Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark Geopark (LUGG). adviser Prof. Dr Ibrahim Komoo had on the occasion outlined the importance This comprehensive year-long of LUGG and this was followed by a talk programme sees more exchange of by Ustaz Mahmud Hassan who shed geopark conservation knowledge that light on the linkage between human will put Malaysia's first global geopark being and the environment from the The 5-day APGN training course held in and also Southeast Asia's first geopark Islamic perspective. At the event, LADA Langkawi served as an eye opener for some 47 delegates in the Asia Paci c region to share on firmer footing and position it on a handed out uniforms to 21 Langkawi geopark knowledge. level playing field alongside estab- Global Geopark Ambassadors who are lished international geopark communi- active local community leaders Indonesia, took part in a five-day ties. promoting geopark. regional training course to discuss A six-month schedule between July Meanwhile, the highlight of events that topics related to geoparks in the Asia and December comprising field visits LADA has organised was the Second Pacific to hone the skills and build abroad in China and South Korea are Regional Workshop of the Asia Pacific capacity of Geopark stakeholders bound to cement Langkawi's presti- Geopark Network (AGPN) in Langkawi within the vast region. Tunku Puteri gious status as the premier geopark between May 8 and 12. Intan was on hand to grace the open- site in the Asia Pacific region. ing ceremony. Some 47 delegates from seven coun- The first overseas trip is a visit by LUGG tries, namely Malaysia, Myanmar, Of the topics discussed were Chinese delegates to Zhijindong Cave to attend China, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand and and Japanese geopark experience, field the 5th Asia Pacific Geopark Network visits, governance, community engage- Symposium of Zhijindong Cave ment and public education field. UNESCO Global Geopark in the Also present at the course were Guizhou Province, China, between 27 Langkawi Development Authority and 29 September. (LADA) CEO Datuk Haji Azizan Noordin Royal Patron of Langkawi UNESCO and LADA manager (Geopark Division and Conservation) Azmil Munif Mohd Global Geopark Tunku Puteri Intan LADA CEO Dato' Haji Azizan Noordin (second - Safinaz Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam from left) handed over a certi cate of Bukhari. Shah, the Temenggong Kedah, is recognition to one of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark ambassadors. Delegates upgraded their knowledge scheduled to grace another UNESCO through talks and discussions and Global Geopark (UGG) in Jeju, South adjourned to the scenic Geopark sites Korea between 3 and 7 October. at various locations in fun-filled activities with in-depth narrations from Among activities in the pipeline are - two Global Geopark Communication guidedA coup tours.le of tourists enjoying the programmes with the Muroto UGG, Among the places they visited on Japan, and Gunung Sewu UGG, Geopark Day was the Skycab ride for a Indonesia. - panoramic birds' eye view of Langkawi On the home front, LUGG hosts a coral A group photo taken at the famous from vantage point on the platform at Langkawi Sky Cab. reef conservation programme in Pulau the peak of Gunung Machinchang. Dangli, off Langkawi in August and November.

Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) hosts the official opening ceremony of the 10th anniversary of LUGG on Aug 3.

Two months earlier, LADA organised a Delegates at the Asia Paci c Geopark Network had a fruitful training session in Langkawi. Royal Patron of the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark Tunku gPuterireete Intand by BSa nazrahmi Tuankuny Kite Abduleagle Halims, the Geopark Day to engage the local Mu'adzam Shah, the Temenggong Kedah, graced the openingiconic of sym theb sessionol of Langkawi.

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LADA CEO shares Langkawi vision

ato’ Azizan Noordin, the newly appointed Chief Executive O cer of D Langkawi Development Authority, is a man of action and has set a fast pace for himself in his 100 days in o ce. Within a short period, he has whipped up a calendar of 35 major events that averages 3 happenings per month to draw tourists in droves to the legendary Langkawi. The potent combination of global network- ing that he cultivated while serving as Tourism Malaysia Deputy Director-General (Marketing) coupled with his newly acquired skills as a fully registered tour guide is undoubtedly the key to success. where2 speaks to Dato’ Azizan recently and here’s what he shares his vision for Langkawi.

Q. Your 100 days as LADA CEO has come move at a faster pace to catch up with the Currently, Langkawi receives about 2.4 and gone. Within that short time, you constantly changing tourism industry. I have million local visitors and 1.2 million interna- have set the agenda and also the fast appointed o cials from Tourism Malaysia tional visitors per year. They enjoy very much pace of work for yourself. Would you like who has vast experience to spearhead the its beaches, beauty and rich natural to elaborate on the work in progress? Tourism Division into the next level. landscape, historical sites and attractions of food, culture, and shopping. It is the aspiration of LADA to position I must admit that time really ies fast, Q. You have decided to work and collabo- Langkawi as the gateway to Southern especially when you are in the tourism rate with international airlines to Thailand and Koh Lipe as well as to the states industry. Time is crucial. You must be able to encourage them to jointly promote and of Kedah and Perlis in the Northern Corridor. make a quick decision with a proven result. to grow the airlines’ presence in Langka- Tourism is a fast moving industry. People keep wi. What is your target? changing and you must be alert at all times. Q. St Regis Langkawi has landed while Since taking o ce as the CEO of LADA, I Ritz Carlton, Langkawi, will soon open in I believe connectivity is vital to have put up a Calendar of Events 2017 for July. These two international luxurious Langkawi’s tourism progress. Especially Langkawi to ensure that the island continues hotels speak well of how high-end Langkawi itself being an island, we need to be an attractive destination for domestic travelers are receptive of Langkawi as the constant connectivity to and from other and international tourists. I received so much playground for the rich and famous. destinations around the world. The regional support and help from old friends of the Would you like to share on what else aviation industry in Asia is growing and is industry and by reconnecting with event coming in the near future? organisers that I have worked before, I have reaching smaller destinations. I hope that made COE 2017 a reality. There are 35 exciting regional airlines would establish new routes, events lined up for 2017, ranging from by then it can attract tourism, investment, Hotels in Langkawi recorded occupancy international exhibitions, cultural and music and jobs. I had several meetings with airline rates of between 75% to 95% last year. festivals and sporting events. Some of these operators and they sounded positive to Langkawi is known to be one of the hotel events are returning to Langkawi for yet make Langkawi one of their routes. There markets with the highest average daily rate another year whilst some are new events are clear signs that Langkawi needs more (ADR) in the country and is expected to organized for the rst time. direct international ights to boost interest continue performing well in the coming For 2017, we also plan 30 community among foreigners to visit this Island. years. The recent opening of St Regis events for Langkawi local community. These Langkawi and other upcoming premium events are to nurture interest and participa- luxury brands will have a signicant impact tion of the local community in the tourism Q. You have mentioned the importance and broaden Langkawi’s hotel market that industry. of attracting high-end travelers and was mainly dominated by the Four Seasons, international Vogue Magazine has voted Westin, Andaman and The Datai. In the near future, Langkawi will have its On the administration side, you have Langkawi as the 6th hottest tourism destination for 2017. What are your plans rst water theme park, that is the Langkawi beefed up your sta with ocials who Water Kingdom located in Kuah town. The have adequate tourism-related experi- to take tourism in Langkawi to the next level? water theme park which cost RM60 million ence those with whom you would not will boost future tourism demand. have had to waste time to move and act While the present Mahsuri International seamlessly along with you. Do you want Currently, Langkawi has been voted as Exhibition Centre (MIEC) and Langkawi to add? the 6th hottest tourism destination 2017 International Convention Centre (LICC) will alongside Bali, Hawaii, and Mauritius. With continue to allow business and other types Yes. There have been several changes the COE 2017 in place, we hope to increase conferences to be held on the island, with its that I have made in order to make LADA the number of tourist arrivals to Langkawi. The facade of Ariza Seafront Terraces. international standard facilities. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 50 Vision for Langkawi Vision for Langkawi

Q. Langkawi Tourism Blueprint 2.0 promises a purpose-driven programme from time to time. For instance, at the end of Pasir Tengkorak and houses many worthy art to tap Langkawi's tourism potential to 2017, Ironman Triathlon will make a come- pieces by the late Ibrahim and collections of LADA CEO turn this archipelago of 99 islands in a back for the 4th time. various other artists. shares Langkawi vision top world destination. How would it Whilst for the rst time, Langkawi Laman Padi at Pantai Cenang is a rice succeed in a soft economic scenario? International Bird Fair will make its way in museum where exhibits include rice planting November. This Bird Fair aims to highlight tools, charts, photographs and various ato’ Azizan Noordin, the newly appointed Chief Executive O cer of The Langkawi Tourism Blueprint (2011 and showcase the dierent species of birds related artifacts. Visitors have the chance to D Langkawi Development Authority, is a man of action and has set a to 2015) was ocially launched on 8 and promote the protection of birds, their participate in paddy planting activities fast pace for himself in his 100 days in o ce. December 2011 by the Prime Minister with habitats, encourage bird watching and during the paddy growing season. Within a short period, he has whipped up a calendar of 35 major the purpose of increasing tourist arrivals and ecotourism activities. In conjunction with Kedah's Art and events that averages 3 happenings per month to draw tourists in droves spending and the targets of at least three In December, Langkawi will be hosting Cultural programme in August, Langkawi Fest to the legendary Langkawi. The potent combination of global network- million tourist arrivals and investment of at two music concerts namely, The Langkawi sets to transform this tranquil island into a ing that he cultivated while serving as Tourism Malaysia Deputy least RM5 billion, both of which have been Island Music Festival and The Langkawi vibrant hub of colourful decorations, live Director-General (Marketing) coupled with his newly acquired skills as a achieved. International Blues Roots Aseana (Libra). music, and joyous cultural performances. fully registered tour guide is undoubtedly the key to success. Tourist arrivals since 2012 have steadily While in September, tourist and local where2 speaks to Dato’ Azizan recently and here’s what he shares his risen from 3.06 million to 3.62 million in 2015, residents will be able to see ying colourful vision for Langkawi. while investment rose from RM5.08 billion to Q. Are only world-class attractions such kites with dierent shapes and sizes during RM11.9 billion. To further enhance tourism, as Sky Bridge the way to go to showcase the Langkawi International Kite Festival. the Langkawi Tourism Blueprint 2.0 Langkawi's attractiveness while its natural beauty such as Global Geopark relegated Q. Your 100 days as LADA CEO has come move at a faster pace to catch up with the Currently, Langkawi receives about 2.4 (2016-2020) was drawn up and has been to take on a role as second ddle? Q. The call for Langkawi to embrace and gone. Within that short time, you constantly changing tourism industry. I have million local visitors and 1.2 million interna- tabled to the Kedah State Government for sustainable tourism practices is mount- have set the agenda and also the fast appointed o cials from Tourism Malaysia tional visitors per year. They enjoy very much recommendation before it will be discussed ing. The Prime Minister has declared pace of work for yourself. Would you like who has vast experience to spearhead the its beaches, beauty and rich natural further at the Federal level. As we are proud to have world-class Langkawi should become the rst carbon to elaborate on the work in progress? Tourism Division into the next level. landscape, historical sites and attractions of attractions in Langkawi, there are more zero island in the country. What have food, culture, and shopping. Q. How do you take advantage of a attractions in Langkawi, especially the natural been done in this aspect? It is the aspiration of LADA to position weakened Ringgit to make Langkawi beauty of the islands, which is the main I must admit that time really ies fast, Q. You have decided to work and collabo- Langkawi as the gateway to Southern conducive for more inbound travelers source of tourism. We have suggested and especially when you are in the tourism rate with international airlines to Thailand and Koh Lipe as well as to the states who would have a higher spending implemented a bottom-up approach for There are steps being taken by the local industry. Time is crucial. You must be able to encourage them to jointly promote and of Kedah and Perlis in the Northern Corridor. power to spend lavishly in Malaysia? future development that focuses on econom- government to achieve the rst Malaysia's make a quick decision with a proven result. to grow the airlines’ presence in Langka- Your say. ic, social and environmental sustainability. low-carbon status island by 2030 as has been Tourism is a fast moving industry. People keep wi. What is your target? changing and you must be alert at all times. Q. St Regis Langkawi has landed while This approach means the involvement of the declared by the Prime Minister recently. Apart At the moment, Malaysia is facing the Since taking o ce as the CEO of LADA, I Ritz Carlton, Langkawi, will soon open in local community in the decision-making from establishing Langkawi Municipal I believe connectivity is vital to ringgit's depreciation. The ringgit has hit an have put up a Calendar of Events 2017 for July. These two international luxurious process is crucial in directing Langkawi's Council as the Secretariat for green practices, Langkawi’s tourism progress. Especially all-time low as compared to other known Langkawi to ensure that the island continues hotels speak well of how high-end development in days to come. We take studies have been carried out to nd ways Langkawi itself being an island, we need currencies. But not to worry, on the other to be an attractive destination for domestic travelers are receptive of Langkawi as the account of suggestions of implementing and means to achieve the status. constant connectivity to and from other hand, it will help boost competitiveness in and international tourists. I received so much playground for the rich and famous. zoning system based on supply, branding, According to the Member of Parliament destinations around the world. The regional export and attract tourist arrivals to the support and help from old friends of the Would you like to share on what else and resources. for Langkawi, Yang Berhormat Dato’ Ir aviation industry in Asia is growing and is country. Similarly, Langkawi being a free duty industry and by reconnecting with event coming in the near future? For example, the northwest area i.e. Nawawi Bin Ahmad, a consultant has been organisers that I have worked before, I have reaching smaller destinations. I hope that island, the decline will attract foreign tourists Pantai Kok, will be designated for luxury stay appointed to help the island achieve the made COE 2017 a reality. There are 35 exciting regional airlines would establish new routes, because the island is cheaper and aordable. while Pantai Cenang area is for family low-carbon status. Plans will be taken to events lined up for 2017, ranging from by then it can attract tourism, investment, Hotels in Langkawi recorded occupancy To the locals, traveling within the country is recreational activities. support the national agenda to reduce international exhibitions, cultural and music and jobs. I had several meetings with airline rates of between 75% to 95% last year. much better that having to travel overseas carbon emissions to 40 per cent by the year festivals and sporting events. Some of these operators and they sounded positive to Langkawi is known to be one of the hotel which is much more expensive. 2020. events are returning to Langkawi for yet make Langkawi one of their routes. There markets with the highest average daily rate Q. Local culture and its heritage should A feasibility study on Low Carbon are clear signs that Langkawi needs more (ADR) in the country and is expected to Langkawi 2030 is being conducted in another year whilst some are new events Q. Domestic visitors still form the bulk of be regarded as the 'soul' of Langkawi. direct international ights to boost interest continue performing well in the coming collaboration with the Government of South organized for the rst time. tourists to Langkawi. Though they are This seemed to have been sidelined in the among foreigners to visit this Island. years. The recent opening of St Regis Korea using Jeju Island as a comparative For 2017, we also plan 30 community not big spenders, nevertheless their quest for quick prot. What are your Langkawi and other upcoming premium benchmark. Langkawi could be a showcase events for Langkawi local community. These visits keep tourism business a oat. What plans to resurrect this aspect of our luxury brands will have a signicant impact for renewable energy, electric mobility, waste events are to nurture interest and participa- are plans to promote Langkawi locally? culture? tion of the local community in the tourism Q. You have mentioned the importance and broaden Langkawi’s hotel market that management and green buildings which was mainly dominated by the Four Seasons, industry. of attracting high-end travelers and Kedah is known to be rich in its culture would create more job opportunities for local Westin, Andaman and The Datai. international Vogue Magazine has voted The majority of tourists to Langkawi are and heritage alike. It re ects a diversity and people and increase the island’s income by In the near future, Langkawi will have its Langkawi as the 6th hottest tourism domestic tourists which made up of almost this can be seen in their arts, craft, food, promoting green tourism. On the administration side, you have rst water theme park, that is the Langkawi destination for 2017. What are your plans 70% of the total market. Most of them spend songs and dances. Langkawi being part of Nawawi has urged the Federal Govern- beefed up your sta with ocials who Water Kingdom located in Kuah town. The to take tourism in Langkawi to the next very few days in Langkawi and do their Kedah re ects the same attractions. Located ment to provide subsidies or allocations for have adequate tourism-related experi- water theme park which cost RM60 million level? shopping and visiting attracting sites are at Teluk Yu is the Langkawi Craft Complex green technology projects and suggested ence those with whom you would not will boost future tourism demand. their main objective. that showcases many artistic local products adopting the use of electric-powered have had to waste time to move and act While the present Mahsuri International Normally, domestic tourist arrivals peak such as batik painting, wood carvings, glass motorcycles and later introducing electric seamlessly along with you. Do you want Currently, Langkawi has been voted as Exhibition Centre (MIEC) and Langkawi towards the end of the year. There are plans blowing, plaiting, and weaving. cars over the next 5 years to 10 years. to add? the 6th hottest tourism destination 2017 International Convention Centre (LICC) will to organise locally theme event throughout The Ibrahim Hussein Museum and alongside Bali, Hawaii, and Mauritius. With continue to allow business and other types the year to attract them to visit Langkawi Cultural Foundation is located near Pantai Yes. There have been several changes the COE 2017 in place, we hope to increase conferences to be held on the island, with its that I have made in order to make LADA the number of tourist arrivals to Langkawi. The facade of Ariza Seafront Terraces. international standard facilities. - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 50 - GEOPARK GAZETTE - 51 Photo Gallery

Satun Geopark from Thailand participated in the Langkawi Geo Festival by taking up an information booth.

Prof Ibrahim Komoo planting a tree assisted by a conservation sta at Frangipani Resort

Children taking part in a Geopark drawing competition during the Geopark Conservation Day in November 2016

Former LADA CEO Tan Sri Khalid Ramli and Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari at the Press Conference announcing the Langkawi International Travel Awards 2015.

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Bikers among the 600 who turned up with their superbikes at the Royal LADA CEO Dato' Azizan Nordin riding pillion on a Langkawi International Bike Fest 2017. superbike at the Royal Langkawi International Bike Fest 2017.

Tunku Puteri, accompanied by LADA CEO Dato' Azizan Nordin, visiting the 50 exhibits of vintage cars after o ciating the opening of the Royal Langkawi Classic Cars Show 2017.

A Geopark family …Nature guide and also Geopark Ambassador Othman Ayeb and his family members

One for the Album … farewell group photo taken at San’in Kaigan Global Geopark in Japan

New Geopark Logo launch … former LADA CEO Tan Sri Khalid Ramli striking a gong to launch the new logo with Prof Ibrahim Komoo standing behind

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