Exploring Economic Development Strategies towards the Sustainable Development of Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark: The Perspective of District Local Authorities

Abstract

The Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark is a unique park of national and international importance. With this newly conferred status, the park integrates the significant geological, biological, and cultural heritage of three districts, Kota Marudu, Kota Belud, and part of the Ranau district. The paper explores critical sustainable development issues and the roles and responsibilities of district offices within the geopark districts. Additionally, it sheds light on the rules and regulations necessary for preserving geopark resources, as well as the economic strategies that can benefit local communities. Face-to-face personal interviews were conducted from June to August 2023 with 10 respondents from the three local district authorities. The interview responses were transcribed and subsequently analysed using the thematic approach. The findings reveal that the critical issues encountered by district offices in geopark management encompass coordinating geopark management, overseeing and evaluating geopark activities, enforcing forest conservation, collaborating with local communities, planning and developing infrastructure, and facilitating education and community awareness regarding geopark resources. While specific rules and regulations for geopark resource management are not in place, district offices prioritise the utilisation of existing regulatory frameworks (e.g., Environmental Protection Enactment, Sabah Biodiversity Enactment, Forestry Enactment, Nature Protection Regulation, Geological Protection Regulations), geopark management procedures, and limits on human activities within the geopark’s vicinity. Several pertinent economic strategies to bolster the well-being of local communities around the geopark districts which include the promotion of geotourism and local products as tourist attractions, enhancement of infrastructure (road, internet connectivity, and electricity) in the geopark areas, strengthening of local community skills and education concerning the geopark resources, as well as the facilitation of job creation and cultivation of new small business opportunities. The paper offers valuable insights into the development and management of the geopark, as perceived by local authorities. These findings serve as indispensable foundational knowledge for the sustainable management of the geopark through the significant roles and responsibilities held by the district offices.