Niah National Park recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Site

NEW DELHI, INDIA: Niah National Park, an archaeological treasure in Sarawak, has been officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia's cultural and natural heritage. This new UNESCO recognition, announced on July 27, 2024, during the 46th UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting in New Delhi, underscores the site's global significance and ensures its preservation for future generations. The meeting, attended by more than 2,000 delegates from 150 countries, was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.

The Niah National Park is a historical site that unearthed a find of major archaeological significance; a skull of a modern human estimated to be 40,000-year-old. Niah’s collection of 8 caves, which includes the Great Cave and Painted Cave, span over 31 square kilometres and feature ancient rock paintings, discovery of houses tools, pottery and human burials, providing insights into Borneo’s prehistoric cultures.

The announcement was met with widespread celebration among local communities and government officials. Sarawak's Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh, expressed pride in the designation, highlighting the efforts of conservationists and researchers who have worked tirelessly to study and preserve the site. "This recognition by UNESCO is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak and the importance of preserving our natural history," he stated during the event held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. 

Datuk Len Talif emphasized the significance of this achievement for the state's tourism industry and its international standing. "UNESCO's recognition underscores the global importance of Niah National Park as a site with outstanding universal value. It is a testament to the high commitment of the Sarawak Government in preserving and protecting our natural and cultural heritage for the benefit of future generations. The captivating landscape, biological diversity, and cultural heritage make this site extremely important at the Sarawak, Malaysia, and international levels,” he added.

UNESCO's recognition of the Niah Caves in Sarawak is expected to boost tourism, attracting both local and international visitors. However, this also requires ensuring the site's preservation. Authorities have plans to manage visitor numbers and implement conservation measures to protect the ecosystem and archaeological treasures. 

Local communities have been instrumental in preserving the caves, participating in sustainable tourism practices and conservation initiatives. The recognition is seen as a validation of their efforts and promises continued support for their cultural and environmental stewardship.

Also present were Malaysian High Commissioner to India, Datuk Muzafar Shah Mustafa, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, Datuk Roslan Tan Sri Rahman, Director-General of the National Heritage Department Mohamad Muda Bahadin, Malaysia's Permanent Delegate to UNESCO in Paris, Dr. Idris Ismail, and General Manager of the Sarawak Forestry Corporation, Abang Arabi Abang Aimran.