Sustainable Geological Heritage Development Approach in Sarawak Delta, Sarawak, Malaysia

摘要

The Sarawak Delta is located in the Kuching and Bau Districts and comprises the Bako, Santubong, Sarawak River Delta, Serapi and the Bau areas. The area is proposed as the Sarawak Delta Geopark. The delta plain has become a foundation accommodating continuous development where integration between various communities, cultures and the environment takes place. Various geological formations along with several significant geoheritage sites have been identified within and surrounding the proposed Sarawak Delta Geopark area. Despite the important roles of geology in many aspects of development, there are neither proper linkages between geology and sustainable development nor its sustainability used. Through the geoheritage concept which involves proper identification, characterisation, assessment and rank of significant geoheritage sites based on its scientific, aesthetic, cultural and recreational heritage value, now the area is proposed to be partially geoconserved for geotourism purposes. The aim of this paper is to establish further understanding of the relationship between the field of geology and sustainable development through geoheritage development of the proposed Sarawak Delta Geopark. Geoparks are a relatively new form of sustainable development which embraces geoconservation, geotourism and education. Geoparks provide a sound approach for sustainable development in the Sarawak Delta since it can enhance conservation of resources whilst at the same time promoting socio-economic benefits for the local communities.