Design Buku Program RGC2025
Design Buku Program RGC2025
REGIONAL COURSE
ON UNESCO
GLOBAL GEOPARK
THEME :
GEOPARK
NETWORKING AND VISIBILITY
Malaysian
National Commission
APGN
GLOBAL ASIAPACIFIC
GEOPARK GEOPARKS
NETWORK NETWORK
FOREWORD PROGRAM BOOK
THE 8TH REGIONAL COURSE ON UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK 2025
25 – 28 JULY 2025 | LANGKAWI UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK
I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Global Geoparks Network (GGN),
Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN), and the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council for
their continued guidance and presence. To all participants—whether seasoned geopark
professionals or new aspirants—we hope this course will inspire you to deepen your
commitment to the geopark mission in your respective regions.
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SPEAKER INFORMATION
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SPEAKER INFORMATION
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SPEAKER INFORMATION
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SPEAKER INFORMATION
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SPEAKER INFORMATION
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SPEAKER INFORMATION
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SPEAKER INFORMATION
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SCHEDULE PROGRAM
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SCHEDULE PROGRAM
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1. SESSION TOPIC
The course will discuss important topics, including:
Current Development and Challenges of UNESCO Global Geoparks: This session
provides an overview of the latest trends, achievements, and ongoing challenges in
the development of UNESCO Global Geoparks. It offers participants a global
perspective on policy, management, and innovation within geopark networks.
Networking and Visibility towards becoming UGGp: Designed for aspiring geoparks,
this lecture explores strategic networking and visibility efforts needed during the
application and pre-assessment phase. It includes tips on building connections,
branding, and community engagement to gain global recognition.
Strengthening Networking within APGN-UGGp: This session highlights the role and
opportunities provided by the Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) in strengthening
collaboration, capacity building, and collective visibility among its members through
joint programs and peer support.
Networking for Geoparks Resilience and Sustainability: This session explores how
strong partnerships and cross-sector networking contribute to geopark resilience,
especially in times of crisis. It discusses building sustainable models through
knowledge sharing and resource mobilization.
Networking and Visibility towards becoming UGGp: Designed for aspiring geoparks,
this lecture explores strategic networking and visibility efforts needed during the
application and pre-assessment phase. It includes tips on building connections,
branding, and community engagement to gain global recognition.
Strengthening Networking within APGN-UGGp: This session highlights the role and
opportunities provided by the Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) in strengthening
collaboration, capacity building, and collective visibility among its members through
joint programs and peer support.
Networking for Geoparks Resilience and Sustainability: This session explores how
strong partnerships and cross-sector networking contribute to geopark resilience,
especially in times of crisis. It discusses building sustainable models through
knowledge sharing and resource mobilization.
The Langkawi geodiversity are found at various natural and man-made exposures in
various parts of the islands. Rocky coasts and peaks, caves and waterfalls are the best
and most common natural exposures found in Langkawi Islands. Some important
exposures have been classified as geoheritage sites, containing one or more types of
geodiversity.
The establishment of Langkawi UGGp by the Kedah State Government, Malaysia in May
2006, and endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) under the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) in June 2007,
marked an important milestone both in the pursuit of geoheritage conservation as well as
the enhancement of nature’s ecstatic tourism potential.
Machinchang Kilim Karst
Cambrian Geoforest Park
Geoforest Park
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MYTHS & LEGENDS
The interesting fable that lies behind the two imposing mountains of Gunung Raya and
Gunung Machinchang tells much of Langkawi's story. These two mountains were
believed to be giants named Mat Chinchang and Mat Raya who ruled long ago. Much to
Mat Chinchang's displeasure, Mat Raya's son married his daughter. A misunderstanding
happened on the wedding day, which led into a fight. Pots and pans were thrown around
as if an earthquake had struck the island. The place where a big pot of gravy overturned
is now known as Kuah (gravy), the Langkawi capital; pots are broken at Belanga Pechah
(broken pots); a container of hot water tipped over at Ayer Hangat Village; the wedding
ring was thrown to Tanjung Chinchin (ring headland). Tired of the prolonged dispute, Mat
Sawar decided to intervene. Eventually, the two giants and their neighbour were
transformed into mountains. Today, Gunung Machinchang and Gunung Raya stand facing
each other. As if separating the two, Bukit Sawar (Sawar Hill) lies in the middle.
The major attraction of the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park is the viewpoint
located at the peak of Machinchang (Machinchang Peak Geosite) where visitors can have
a 360-degree view of Langkawi Islands and Tarutao Island, one of the geosites of Satun
UNESCO Global Geopark.
To reduce the impact on the environment, a 700-m-high cable car was built from the Cable
Car Complex at its base, which is located at the Oriental Village. Visitors can enjoy the
natural beauty of Langkawi while riding a cable car to Machinchang’s peak. Included at
the Oriental Village complex are two information centres, i.e., the Langkawi Geopark
Information Centre managed by LADA. The building of the Langkawi Cable Car was
completed in mid 2002.
Langkawi Cable Car was initially managed by the Langkawi Cable Car Pte. Ltd. right after
its inauguration in 2002. The management was taken over by Panorama Langkawi Sdn.
Bhd (PLSB), a wholly owned subsidiary of Syarikat Prasarana Negara Berhad in January
2003. In the last 10 years the management task includes the upkeep of the property in
terms of revenue collection, financial monitoring, maintenance, marketing, human
resource, security and safety of the area. Although the company had been bought over
from Prasarana Negara Berhad by LADA in 2012, the task of managing Langkawi Cable
Car was still given to PLSB.
The rocks at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park (KKGP) are Ordovician to Devonian limestone
(~500–345 million years old). The uniqueness of this area lies in the diversity of the karst
landscape and landforms as a result of surface and underground dissolution and wave
erosion of limestone.
The park is bordered by several villages along the Kuah–Padang Lalang Road, including
Kampung Kilim, which is the most populated village. The entrance to the Park is located
at Sungai (=River) Kilim, where various infrastructure, including shop lots, jettys and
parking spaces are provided. Kilim Jetty is managed by the local community since 2000
through the Fishermen Economy Group or KEN, and operated mostly for fishing vessels.
Since Langkawi became a geopark, the activities had started to diversify to include
full-time tour operators. After the inauguration of Langkawi UGGp, tourism activities have
overtaken fishing, hence, LADA upgraded the jetty and surrounding facility. Today, the
association that originally handled fishery at Sungai Kilim is now a fully registered
organisation since 2010, known as the Cooperative of Kilim Village Community Langkawi
Limited, with high returns on its annual income.
This community management approach has been viewed as highly significant to the
aspiration of the UGGp in developing geosites and geotourism for the socioeconomics
and wellbeing of the local community. The management tasks include offering tour
packages for the geotrails, producing local souvenirs and products; observing the safety
and cleanliness of sites; and monitoring the boats that provide services along the river.
In 2006, before the recognition as a geopark, this area received 62,000 tourists yearly.
Most of the tourists were foreigners and the visits were arranged by local tourist guides.
The number of tourist arrivals in 2007 significantly increased to 78,145 and 114,665 in
2008. In 2018, the number of tourist arrivals to this area reached 400,000.
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DAYANG BUNTING MARBLE GEOFOREST PARK
Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park is located in the remote Dayang Bunting Island,
representing Chuping Formation limestone of Permian (290-250 million years). The
limestone was partly transformed into marble due to granite intrusion during the Late
Triassic Period (220-200 million years). Dissolution and erosion processes on the
limestone and marble have shaped the outstanding tropical island karst landscape today.
Many endemic plants grow on vertical limestone cliffs, such as Maxburretia gracilis,
Madhuca calcicola and Justicia robinsonii. Dayang Bunting Lake is Malaysia's largest
doline lake, which inspired many myths and legends of Mambang Sari and Mat Teja.
Since the main geotourism attraction is the lake, the management unit of this large
geoforest park is located near the Tasik Dayang Bunting, the only area open to the public
since 1980’s. Most of the basic facilities, such as signboards, walkway, bathing pool and
gazebos were provided by the Tourism Malaysia and LADA, while the basic utilities
include toilets and changing rooms. In August 2014, LADA Eco-Tourism Sdn. Bhd., a
wholly owned subsidiary of LADA took over the management of this park area. This
management body looks after the management of the facilities, maintenance, marketing,
human resource, and ensure safety as well as security of the area.
GEOLOGICAL SETTING
Langkawi Archipelago was part of a larger tectonic unit called the Sibumasu (or
Shan-Thai) Block. Evidences from sedimentological and palaeontological data showed
that this block, and Langkawi Islands in particular, was originally attached to the ancient
Gondwana Supercontinent during most of the Palaeozoic Era. As Gondwanaland
underwent a period of Ice Age during the Late Carboniferous–Early Permian, its
peripheral ocean was also severely affected. This was proven by the abundance of glacial
marine diamictite (meltwater-flow deposits) and the fossilised presence of cold-water
fauna in Langkawi Islands and other parts of Sibumasu.
The geological evolution of Langkawi Islands and the formation of Peninsular Malaysia
were much related to the evolutionary episodes of the ancient Tethys Ocean, involving the
opening and the closure of several parts of it. During the Early Permian, the Sibumasu
Block broke away from Gondwana and rifted continuously northward approaching the
equator following the opening and expansion of the Meso-Tethys Ocean. This block
eventually collided with the East Malaya–Indochina Block to form the Southeast Asian
mainland during the Late Triassic during the closing of the older Palaeo-Tethys Ocean.
This collision was evident along the Bentong–Raub Suture Zone, followed by the massive
granitoid emplacement in Peninsular Malaysia, including those of Langkawi Islands. At
the same time, the entire Peninsular Malaysia, including Langkawi Islands was uplifted.
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GENERAL GEOLOGY
In general, the rocks of Langkawi Islands are divided into four sedimentary rock
formations and one granite formation. These sedimentary rock formations are the
Cambrian Machinchang Formation, Ordovician to Middle Devonian Setul Formation, Late
Devonian to Early Permian Singa Formation and the Middle to Late Permian Chuping
Formation. The sequence of these sedimentary rock formations is generally younger
towards the east. However, the presence of the Kisap Thrust Fault that runs more or less
in north-south direction in the eastern part of Langkawi has changed the order of this
sequence dramatically. The Kisap Thrust Fault has a westward transport direction and
has brought up the much older Setul and possibly Machinchang Formation from the east
to overlay the younger Chuping and Singa Formation in the central axis of Langkawi
Islands. The granite suite is Triassic in age, known as the Gunung Raya Granite. This
granite intruded into all older sedimentary rock formations turning them into various types
of metamorphic rocks. The youngest geological unit is the unconsolidated recent
alluvium, containing sand and clay, deposited in narrow valleys and coastal plains.
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GEODIVERSITY: SETUL FORMATION
The Setul Formation comprises mainly thickly- to thinly-bedded limestone, which is light
to dark grey in colour. The detrital unit includes well-bedded sandstone, shale, and black
cherty rocks. Only a limited thickness of detrital rocks is represented in the Setul
Formation. The total thickness of the formation is about 1,550 m. The age of the Setul
Formation ranged from the Early Ordovician to the Middle Devonian. The Setul Formation
is generally interpreted as a shallow marine deposit with the incursion of two clastic units
representing much deeper marine deposits.
The Setul Formation is mainly found on the eastern portion of the Langkawi archipelago,
but with features conformable with the Machinchang Formation near Kubang Badak in the
northwest. The Setul Formation is the oldest carbonate rock formation in Malaysia and the
region, forming 490-370 million years ago and showcasing the deposition of
predominantly carbonate particles with small amounts of eroded rock fragments
deposited in a shallow sea environment, creating limestone, sandstone and shale. The
Setul Formation’s appearance above the younger Singa and Chuping Formations is
unusual, and was only understood with the discovery of the large Kisap Thrust Fault,
which uplifted the Setul Formation to dominate the eastern coast of Langkawi, allowing
erosion and dissolution to create the magnificent karstic formations seen today.
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GEODIVERSITY: SINGA FORMATION
The Singa Formation sits paraconformably (deposited on top of each other; however,
significant time has passed between deposition) above the Setul Formation and is
dominated by thickly-bedded to massive, dark grey to black siltstone and mudstone which
often contain sporadically distributed clasts of various sizes, shapes and origins within a
fine grained rock mass. The clasts have been interpreted as dropstones of glacial origin
and suggest the formation took place within a drastically colder and shallower
environment than what was seen during the deposition of the Setul Formation. The Singa
Formation is dated as beginning in the late Devonian (350 million years ago), and
continuing deposition until the early Permian (290 million years ago). Throughout this time
you can see variations in the intermittent deposists of sands, evidence of short-term rising
and falling sea-levels, before a steady increase towards the end of the formation’s
deposition, exhibited by the appearance of limestone lenses.
The most unique feature of this rock formation is the appearance of the one-
billion-year-old trondhjemite granite (light-colored intrusive igneous rock) on Pulau Tepor.
There are also other features found within the formation as seen in Sungai Itau and Batu
Asah, where one can find brachiopod fossils indicative of cold water temperatures of the
Gondwanaland seas.
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GEODIVERSITY: CHUPING FORMATION
The Chuping Formation was named for the mostly thickly-bedded to massive light grey
crystalline dolomitic limestone. The total thickness of the Chuping Formation is estimated
at 750–900 m. The formation dates from the late Early Permian to possibly the late
Triassic (290 to 250 million years ago), but only Early to Middle Permian fossils have been
found in the Langkawi Islands. The entire upper half of the formation has undergone a
certain degree of metamorphism and is therefore devoid of fossils. At the basal part of the
formation, a transitional passage bed was developed between the siltstone-dominated
bed of the Singa Formation and the limestone bed of the Setul Formation. The true upper
boundary of the Chuping Formation is not known as it is considered the youngest
sedimentary rock unit on the island.
From a distance one could mistake the Chuping Formation for the Setul Formation, as
they exhibit similar karstic formations and are found next to one another due to the Kisap
thrust fault uplifting the older Setul Formation to the same level. The Chuping Formation
has undergone metamorphism, which has transformed the limestone to marble and
removed many of its fossils and sedimentary structures. However, areas which have not
undergone metamorphism are filled with fossils like fusulinids, brachiopods, bivalves,
gastropods, corals, bryozoans and algae, which are used to date the formation.
The Chuping Formation, due to its metamorphism to marble, is heavily fractured, which
has caused dolinas or collapsed caves, the most famous being Tasik Dayang Bunting,
which is the largest lake in Langkawi. Within the less metamorphosed sections, like Pulau
Jong, the limestones are rich in fossils such as foraminifera, molluscs, brachiopods,
echinoderms, rugose corals and bryozoa.
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GEODIVERSITY: IGNEOUS ROCK FORMATION
Langkawi Islands contain both large and small igneous stocks and bodies, especially in
the centre region. The Langkawi igneous bodies have been collectively named the
Gunung Raya Granite. The granitic suites in Langkawi are found to be large and small
igneous stocks (intrusions that are no bigger than 100 sq km) and are believed to be Late
Triassic in age, which suggests that emplacement of the granite took place almost
concurrently with the region’s major tin-bearing granites.
The granite is predominantly made of porphyritic granites (large crystals in a compact
groundmass) with some coarse- and fine-grained equigranular granites with rare dykes
(small vertical intrusions) and sills (small horizontal intrusions) forming large pegmatite
crystals. In Langkawi, the granites intruded several types of host rocks, transforming them
into various types of metamorphic rocks producing minerals, such as tourmaline, ilmenite,
zircon and garnet. Due to the long cooling time and porphytic texture, there are areas in
Langkawi where you can see crystals within the rocks as well as sills which have been
folded in Pulau Tuba. Also due to the way that granite is eroded, has caused amazing
features like the magnificent Telaga Tujuh Waterfall and Teluk Yu Granite Tors.
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FIELD GUIDE, 28 JULY 2025, SUNDAY
ROUTE 1
MACHINCHANG CAMBRIAN GEOFOREST
PARK AND KILIM KARST GEOFOREST PARK
Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park
SCHEDULE PROGRAM
Day 2
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LANGKAWI RESEARCH CENTRE & GEOPARK RESEARCH CENTRE
Langkawi Research Centre (LRC) is located on the Campus of Tuanku Abdul Halim
Mu’adzam Shah, Langkawi UGGp. LRC is a focused centre at Universiti Kebangsaan
Malaysia (UKM) with roles to carry out research and academic services related to
integrated heritage conservation and the development of geoparks. It is now under the
administration of the Centre for Management of Natural and Physical Laboratories
(ALAF-UKM), since 2023, mainly for providing services for researchers and the wider
public. The roles of research and consulation on geopark development, has since been
taken over by the newly established Geopark Research Centre (GRC) based in the
Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI)-UKM since Jan 2024. The vision
GRC is to be a centre of excellence for research and development of natural resources,
culture and local traditions and a referral centre for regional sustainable development.
Among the roles of this centre are to conduct research on sustainability science and
provide expert services related to integrated heritage conservation and development of
geoparks; conduct research and consultation on regional sustainable development and
knowledge tourism; influence local and national policies in issues of integrated approach
and governance; pioneer the idea of geopark science as a model of regional sustainable
development; and strengthen graduate studies and capacity building of various
stakeholders. GRC is a strategic partner of Langkawi UGGp.
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MACHINCHANG CAMBRIAN GEOFOREST PARK
Visit the Geopark Information Centre before taking the cable car ride to the peak of Mount
Machinchang. Note: There might be a big crowd and a long queueing line, so please be
patient. Langkawi Cable Car is managed by Panorama Langkawi SkyCab, which is not
just about cable car ride. There are many other attractions (SkyRex, SkyBridge, SkyGlide,
SkyTrail, SkyPos, SkyBistro, SkyBoutique, SkyDome, 3D Art Langkawi, 6D-Cinemotion,
F1 Simulator, Time Travel). It is impossible to experience every attraction because we are
not on vacation. Instead, we are going to do things that are educational (and fun too). So,
do not stray away from the group
Located at the foothills of Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park on the west coast of
Langkawi, Oriental Village is the home of Langkawi SkyCab and Langkawi SkyBridge, the
renowned attractions in Malaysia. The area is just a 45-minute drive from Kuah Jetty and
only a 20-minute drive from Langkawi International Airport (LIA). A great destination for all
stage of age, this 25.944-arches Oriental Village offers you a breath taking surrounding
with unique instagrammable spots to capture your special moments. As it has many offer-
ings for its visitors, a day-trip to Oriental Village is definitely a must. Ranging from
best-value-for-money souvenirs, casual clothing, to mouth-watering food of more than 95
outlets, stores and kiosks, Oriental Village has it all in one place. For customer’s conve-
nience, musollas, ATMs and money changer kiosks are available around Oriental Village.
Middle Station is located 650 m above sea level and the first stop of the cable car ride.
Here, visitors can observe the overview and identify different types of landscapes, above
the dense rainforest canopy and out to the distant islands. A new attraction is located at
the Middle Station to embrace the so-called bond between eagles and the island. It is
called Eagle Nest SkyWalk emulating an eagle nest and eagle eggs and glass viewing
platform protruding 30 m over its peak
Nestled on the peak of the Middle Station, is a new attraction called the Eagle’s Nest
SkyWalk, emulating an eagle head looking over its nest. The new attraction is located 650
m above sea level, structured on a 38-metre, free-standing cantilever glass platform,
which at one time can accommodate about 300 people with an equivalent of 21 tonnes.
SkyBridge and Podest 1 and 2
Completed in 2014, this suspension bridge is built at 650 m above sea level. Accessible
from top station by a mechanical lift called SkyGlide or via a natural walk thru the flora and
fauna of the forest. The bridge is suspended from an 82 m high single pylon hangs about
100 m from the ground. The visitors’ platform is called Podest 1 as entry and exit point and
Podest 2, a viewing platform at the further end of the 125-m long bridge. Observation on
different types of landform comprising cone shape hills, deep valleys, rock pillars, cliff and
cubicle sandstones. Halfway across the bridge, looking down is a linear deep gorge with
vertical cliffs due to faulting (lateral earth displacement).
Visitors can experience the breath-taking views from these top platforms. Beautifully
preserved ripple marks and planar cross-beds can be seen at the top station that shows
evidence of ancient times, when the peak of Mount Machinchang was actually in a
shallow sea bottom. The trail also cuts across the Machinchang gorge, with sharply cut
vertical cliffs on both of its walls. There are many information panels describing the
landscape of the area
Gunung Raya at the background and Panoramic view of the eastern part of
Bukit Sawak in the middle Langkawi from the Machinchang peak
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Biodiversity
The sandstone layers at the top of Machinchang produce a special habitat for sandstone
forest dominated by Syzygium attenuatum (Kelat Bukit), Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat
Ali), and bamboo climber (Dinochloa malayana), and tiny bubble-nest frogs (Raorchestes
parvulus). This area is covered by mixed dipterocarp forest type (Dipterocarpaceae is the
dominant tree family), but at the peak of Machinchang, sandstone forest produces
health-like forest with stunted trees with gnarled stems, and small, and waxy leaves as
an adaptation to porous and nutrient-poor soil, and the dry coastal winds. Nevertheless,
27 floral species are identified as Peninsular Malaysian endemics (plants/animals that are
unique to a specific area). A total of 60 species from 40 families were recorded at Gunung
Machinchang, with Rubiaceae forming the dominant family. Among the interesting flora
that can be found at the top of Gunung Machinchang are Podocarpus neriifolius (Podo
Bukit), and the broad-leafed palm Livistonia chinensis. Rare species included Fagraea
elliptica (Tembusu Bukit), Lasianthus wrayi (Wool Flower), Globba fragilis (Tepus Tanah),
Nepenthes sanguinea pitcher plants, and Clerodendrum langkawiense (Pepanggil
Langkawi).
Faunal diversity in Langkawi is represented by a total of 44 species of mammals, 79
species of herpetofauna, which consisted of 1 caecilian, 24 frogs and toads, 5 turtles, 17
geckoes and lizards, and 33 snakes, and 238 species of birds. The famous Crab-eating
Macaque, Macaca fascicularis, is perhaps the most interesting as what the generic name
implies, can dive and swim quite efficiently in the sea to catch crabs and other marine life
forms. On higher grounds, the Spectackled monkeys (Trachypithecus obscurus), are
quite a delight to observe as they effortlessly swing from one tree to another searching for
food or simply just playing around. The cryptic and elusive Agamid lizard, Calotes
versicolor, is a common wildlife that finds comfort being near to human presence. Lower
animals also thrive in Langkawi, some are even endemic such as the Pomponia
langkawiensis cicada. Theoretically, when Langkawi was connected to the mainland, the
faunal species richness was the same, but it started to dwindle as soon as the island
became isolated. The existing fauna of Langkawi is the result of a combination of
processes of extinction and immigration that might had taken place since the last
Pleistocene.
Porpax elwesi, a single-flower bulbous Dinoclhoa malayana, a climbing bamboo
orchid, perhaps the smallest in Langkawi
Raorchestes parvulus, a tiny bubble-nest frog Cynopterus brachyotis, Short-nosed fruit bat
modities leaf of Livistona chinensis palm as a tent
Langkawi Craft Complex
Ceramic Geoproduct of a local entrepreneur In-situ breeding of stingless bees for honey
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FIELD GUIDE, 28 JULY 2025, SUNDAY
ROUTE 1
MACHINCHANG CAMBRIAN GEOFOREST
PARK AND KILIM KARST GEOFOREST PARK
Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park
SCHEDULE PROGRAM
Guided tour
• Gua Kelawar
1650-1800
• Kilim Pinnacle Geosite
• Eagle Watching
1830 Dinner
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LANGKAWI GEOPARK DISCOVERY CENTRE
The Langkawi Geopark Discovery Center (GDC), was officially opened to public in
January 2020. The GDC showcases the rich natural (geological and biological) heritage
and cultural heritage of Langkawi UGGp, especially of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park.
Through interactive exhibits and educational programmes, visitors can uncover ancient
rock formations, unique biodiversity, and captivating cultural treasures. The exhibits are
divided into eight zones: 1) introduction and socioculture, 2) myths and legends, 3)
mangrove forest, 4) themed exhibition area, 5) UGGp, 6) Interactive games, 7) library, 8)
amphitheatre hall. The tour ends at the GDC Souvenir Shop, selling various local
handicrafts and souvenirs by the local people, including by several ambassadors of
Langkawi UGGp.
The GDC and the Kilim Jetty (on the left), while
the Fishermen jetty is on the right The Geopark Discovery Centre (GDC)
Sanctuary Bakau, nestled within the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, offers a serene haven for
nature enthusiasts. It is managed by the Cooperative of Kilim Village Community
Langkawi Limited. As an integral part of the park, it provides a unique opportunity to
explore the mangrove ecosystem up close along a raised mangrove boardwalk. The
access to the boardwalk is free and visitors can enter anytime even without taking any
mangrove tour package. The entrance to the sanctuary is right opposite the Geopark
Discovery Centre across a river via a concrete bridge. Inside the forest, you can see many
juvenile mangrove trees that have been replanted by many visitors. There is one section
in the middle where you can get to ground level with the mangrove trees if the water level
is low enough and watch mudskippers, crabs and hermit crabs scuttling across the mud.
The route is a loop, so there will be very little backtracking or chance of getting lost. The
boardwalks are well maintained, sturdy and have rope barriers for safety. Sanctuary
Bakau's commitment to sustainable ecotourism ensures minimal impact on the
environment, while delivering an unforgettable experience. It is a gateway to appreciate
the natural wonders of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park.
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The entrance to the sanctuary School children involved in a replanting
The Cooperative of Kilim Village Community Langkawi Limited manages the Kilim River
Tourist Jetty, and organises boat tours around the park. The cooperative is a social
enterprise for geoproduct development, especially on eco- and geotourism. Before the
establishment of the Cooperative, the Kilim River Tourism Jetty was under the
management of The Fishermen Economy Group. For operation purposes, the group
registered a company under the name of KEN Makmur Enterprise.
The company operated under the supervision of the Department of Fishery from 2000 to
2010. Many of the fishermen, however, were facing constraints as they were living in
poverty. As a way to overcome the poverty, the fishermen decided to venture into
business and this had led to the idea of establishing a cooperative as the vehicle to
achieve that mission. After several sessions of discussion, members of the association
and Fishermen Economy Group committee members agreed to set up the Cooperative.
Cooperative members consist of more than 100 villagers of Kilim Village. The main
objectives of the Cooperative are to:
Provide employment and business opportunities to the Kilim community.
Improve the living standards of the community with incomes earned through
Tourism-based economic activities and businesses.
Reduce and overcome the problem of poverty among the Kilim community.
Produce successful entrepreneurs in Kilim community.
Become a successful community center that serves as a reference for other
cooperatives.
Kilim Jetty is busy daily handling Vast expanse of pristine mangrove forest of
high tourist arrivals Kilim Karst Geoforest Park
GUA KELAWAR
Gua Kelawar is located near a tributary of Sungai Kilim. It was named after thousands of
insect-eating bats roosting in the main chamber. Gua Kelawar consists of two caves. The
western cave has developed a floor area of about 270 m sq with a low roof (1-3 m),
forming a tunnel. The most interesting and important feature is the occurrence of old
oysters attached on the cave wall and roof. Radiocarbon dating indicated that the shells
are of 5252 + 110 years old. The present altitude of these ancient shells shows that the
sea level about 5,000 years ago was about 2 m higher than the present day sea-level. The
eastern cave is larger, having a floor area of about 750 m sq, with roof reaching up to 10
m high and the tunnel. Both caves have mouth facing to the south and north. A lot of
interesting cave features and structures occur in the caves including stalactite, stalagmite,
and rock falls.
The main chamber of the cave has a concrete The entrance to the cave is small and only allows
walkway for people of all ages to visit single-lined tourists to go in.
Kilim Pinnacle Geosite
Various shapes and forms of hills, islands, and pinnacles at Kilim area are formed as a
result of prolonged erosion, weathering, and dissolution of the Setul limestone.
Dissolution usually begins along weaker zones like joints, faults, and bedding planes.
Among the key landform features in Kilim are isolated and barren hills with pinnacles.
Such dramatic features are remnants of ongoing dissolution processes. Pinnacles can be
left standing as stacks in the sea after prolonged erosion. Coastal landforms are also
dramatic, with cliffs dropping vertically into the water. Some of these cliffs have been
etched and carved into sea notches and sea arches by wave actions.
The outstanding pinnacles of Kilim are produced This is among the most famous spots for taking
by long-term exposure to dissolution and erosion. selfies and photos.
EAGLE-WATCHING
Eagle watching is a famous activity in a mangrove tour package. It has been going on
even before Langkawi became a UGGp. The reddish-brown eagles (Brahminy Kite) are
the most common eagle here, together with the largest eagle in Malaysia, the White-
bellied sea eagle. Here is the feeding areas of the eagles. A spectacular sight is when
many eagles circle the sky and dive into the water for food. You can watch this for about
20 minutes while sitting in the boat. When you reach the calm water area surrounded by
dense forests, the boatman ram the boat engine to create some noise to signal our arrival.
The eagles have gotten used to the boats and will respond, even though there is actually
no food thrown into the water. Sometimes, they use fish that floats to bait the eagles.
The Kilim Basin has a unique ecosystem, which is a limestone ecosystem and co-existing
mangrove swamps. The mangrove forest species here grows on mud layer on top of the
limestone substrate. Root network and mangrove trees reduce the energy of waves and
tidal currents and over time, mud is deposited in a wider area until finally, mangrove trees
can live on a layer of mud deposited on limestone rocks. This kind of existence is very rare
because it is usually a mangrove swamp area exist in mudflats on sheltered beaches.
Mangrove ecosystems reduce coastal erosion and the impact of typhoons and tsunamis.
Mangrove is also among productive forest ecosystems in storing carbon dioxide and
produce the oxygen needed for life on Earth.
The natural resources of the mangrove forest in Langkawi are the richest in Malaysia. Of
the 119 mangrove flora taxa in Langkawi, 40 species are exclusive mangroves, 68 are
non-exclusive and 11 species are associated mangrove species. In the Kilim mangrove
complex, a total of 55 species from 40 genera and 27 families of mangrove plants were
recorded. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park features a beautiful mix of well-protected green
mangrove forests, isolated white beaches and blue lagoons. As you cruise down the calm,
winding river, you can observe the wonders of the park's marine ecosystem, its flora and
fauna and the natural inhabitants, such as the over-hanging 'Bogak Trees' (Cycas clivico-
la), eagles, crabs, monitor lizards and macaques. The origin of the name Langkawi is from
the words 'lang' and 'kawi'. 'Lang' refers to the eagle and 'kawi' is the brownish red color.
Therefore, the name Langkawi refers to the Brahminy kite (Haliastur indus) which can be
found in most areas in Langkawi. The White-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) is
the largest eagle in Malaysia and is white except for the lower wings. Both of these
species are very easy to see in Kilim.
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Primates that make mangroves a wild place looking for food include the macaques
(Macaca fascicularis) and Dusky leaf monkey (Trachypithecus obscurus). The macaque
is one of the national biological heritage. Though they are considered pests that affect
public order in most places, they are special because of their natural ability to dive and
swim looking for their favorite food, which is crabs. Most of the primate species in the
world are afraid of water, including the chimpanzees and gorillas
The vast expense of pristine mangrove forest on Rhizophora apiculata and R. mucronata, the red
limestone substrate is unique in Malaysia mangroves are the most dominant species in Kilim
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Hipposideros armiger, Great roundleaf bat (up to 60 g) Hipposideros larvatus, Intermediate roundleaf
bat (20 g)
Hipposideros bicolor, Bicolored roundleaf bat (up Macaca fascicularis, Long-tailed macaque or
to 10 g) Crab-eating macaque
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SCHEDULE PROGRAM
ROUTE 2
DAYANG BUNTING MARBLE GEOFOREST PARK AND TUBA GEOTOURISM TRAIL
Breakfast/ Morning Tea Break
Tasik Dayang Bunting
Breakfast
1100 Lunch
Pulau Tuba
Marine Research Station UiTM (MARES)
Sil Tuba
Bukit Kechil Geosite
Geopark Ocean Trail
Leko Show/ Tea Break
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DAYANG BUNTING MARBLE GEOFOREST PARK
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SCHEDULE PROGRAM
Day 3
1215-1400 Lunch
1800 Dinner
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TUBA GEOTOURISM TRAIL
RES is equipped to support field-based marine research, particularly in the areas of:
• Coral reef and seagrass bed monitoring
• Marine biodiversity assessment and taxonomy
• Water quality analysis and coastal health
• Marine geology and sediment studies
• Climate change impacts on marine ecosystems
Researchers, students, and collaborators use MARES as a base for long-term ecological
monitoring of coral reef resilience, fisheries resources, and the impacts of human activity
and natural processes on the surrounding marine environments. Its proximity to Pulau
Singa Besar, Pulau Dayang Bunting, and Pulau Tuba makes it ideal for integrated marine
landscape studies.
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Geopark Ocean Trail
The Geopark Ocean Trail is a signature coastal interpretive route located along the
southern edge of Pulau Tuba, part of the Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park within
Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. This low-impact, community-linked trail is more than
just a scenic walk—it is an educational journey through time, tides, and traditional
knowledge, designed to immerse visitors in the natural and cultural richness of
Langkawi’s coastal geodiversity.
Geological Significance
Stretching along a segment of Pulau Tuba’s rugged shoreline, the trail offers access to
exposed rock outcrops and dynamic coastal landforms shaped by both tectonic activity
and marine processes. Key features along the trail include:
• Metamorphosed limestone ridges with visible layering and minor faulting
• Wave-cut platforms and sea notches, formed by the erosive action of tides
• Beachrock and sediment deposits, providing insight into coastal sedimentology
• Viewpoints of nearby islets, shaped by ancient tectonic uplift and marine erosion
These features reflect interactions between land and sea, showcasing how geological
formations influence coastline development, marine habitats, and human activity.
LEKO SHOW
Leko Show & Tea Break (Pulau Tuba Women’s Cooperative) Enjoy a cultural performance
and light refreshments prepared by the Pulau Tuba women’s cooperative, featuring local
delicacies and geoproducts under the Leko brand. This session celebrates the role of
women in geopark entrepreneurship and creative economy.
What is the Leko Brand?
Leko—a name inspired by the local dialect—represents a growing initiative led by the
women of Pulau Tuba to preserve, promote, and innovate local knowledge, crafts, and
culinary traditions in ways that are environmentally friendly, culturally rooted, and
economically empowering.
Through the cooperative model, local women collaborate to:
• Create and sell authentic geoproducts, such as handmade snacks, natural teas,
herbs, and crafts
• Uphold sustainable production practices using local resources
• Strengthen community identity while participating in Langkawi Geopark’s visitor
economy
The Leko brand embodies the spirit of community entrepreneurship aligned with geopark
principles—where conservation, education, and local livelihood development are
interconnected.
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PRACTICAL INFORMATION
The Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark (Langkawi UGGp) is pleased to welcome you to
the 8th Regional Course on UNESCO Global Geopark (RCUGG’25). Please read this
practical information to ensure a positive experience and participation at the event and a
pleasant stay in Langkawi.
3. Dress code
Local outfits or smart casual are recommended for the entire event. The dress code
for the welcome dinner on 27 July 2025 is traditional attire.
4. Wifi
Wifi will be available for all delegates.
5. Recommended restaurants
Below are several recommended restaurants where you can enjoy the local cuisine.
Please click the link to view the information.
[Link]
6. Emergency Contacts
Nordiana Nordin: +6017 544 9309
Rasanubari Asmah Rahmah Abd Hamid: +6013 235 7025
7. RCUGG Secretariat
Once at the Aloft Hotel, please feel free to contact the secretariat from 9 AM–5:30 PM,
Friday-Monday, 26–29 April 2024.
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Insurance clause:
It is recommended that the participant has an adequate cover for travel, health and
accident insurance. LADA as the event organiser will not be responsible for personal
injuries, or loss of, or damage to, private property belonging to the participants and
accompanying persons.
Force Majeure* clause
In case of Force Majeure, LADA will be entitled to amend and/or to postpone the event
organised at its own discretion and keep the registration fee valid if the congress is
postponed or transformed (e.g., held on-line). Any related expense (hotel, travel, etc.) will
not be reimbursed. It is understood that in such case, LADA shall be under no liability
towards the participant and therefore no claims, demands, actions, may be pursued
against LADA by the participant and no rights, compensation for damages, costs, interest,
expenses whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, known or unknown, and any other
liability of any kind, may be claimed by the participant against LADA.
*Where a Force Majeure event occurs, or is reasonably likely to occur, the affected party
shall not be liable towards the other party to the extent that it is delayed in or prevented
from performing its obligations.
For the purpose listed in clause above, Force Majeure means any event or sequence of
events beyond a party’s reasonable control and that could not have been reasonably
anticipated or avoided by it and which prevents it from, or delays it in, performing its
obligations under this Agreement.
Force Majeure includes, but is not limited to, an act of God, fire, flood, drought,
earthquake, windstorm or other natural disaster, an act of any sovereign including war,
invasion, act of foreign enemies, hostilities (whether war be declared or not), rebellion,
revolution, insurrection, acts of terrorism, civil commotion or riot (or the threat of, or
preparation for, such events), civil emergency (whether an emergency be declared or
not), explosion, adverse weather conditions, embargo, blockade, imposition of sanctions
or breaking off of diplomatic relations or similar actions, radioactive, nuclear, chemical or
biological contamination, epidemic or pandemic, strikes, industrial action, lockouts or
boycott of a third party workforce only, interruption or failure of utility service, any action
taken by a government or public authority, including, but not limited to, a failure to grant a
necessary license or consent or the imposition of an export restriction, import restriction,
quota or other restriction or prohibition
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Malaysian
National Commission
APGN
GLOBAL ASIAPACIFIC
GEOPARK GEOPARKS
NETWORK NETWORK