PADAWAN: The development of Sarawak’s geoparks is being actively promoted through education with the Padawan Series School Geology Tour Programme designed as a strategic initiative to nurture young people’s awareness of conserving the earth’s heritage.
Organised by the Sarawak Forest Department together with the Department of Minerals and Geoscience Malaysia, the programme is part of the Sarawak Delta Geopark education initiative, taking place in a series across three schools in Padawan including SK Kambug on April 1, SK St Patrick Semadang on April 8, and SK St Bernard Sadir on April 15.
The initiative provides students with hands-on exposure to basic geology through field activities including the study of rock types in the school environment and their contributions to soil formation and biodiversity, thereby fostering a greater understanding of the importance of preserving ecosystem equilibrium.
In accordance with the aspirations of integrated geopark development, the programme emphasises cultural heritage by providing exposure to the utilisation of stones in traditional livelihoods, architecture and the cultural values of local communities that contribute to the geopark’s distinctive identity.
In addition, safety aspects are emphasised as students are exposed to geohazard risks such as landslides and erosion, thereby raising awareness of the relationship between geological structures and potential natural disaster.
The programme held at SK Kambug was attended by Sarawak Forest Department Geopark Management Unit Head Madeline George Pau, Padawan Sub-District Administrative Officer Julius Scott Sapong, and SK Kambug Headmaster Mollin Katis.
In a significant development, Sarawak is set to witness a historic moment when the Sarawak Delta Geopark receives international recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark on 23 April 2026, raising its profile globally.
Simultaneously, the development of the geopark holds the potential to promote local economic growth through the development of sustainable, community-based tourism, thus delivering direct benefits to residents. -UKASnews
