MIRI, Sept 5: Integration of nature and architecture can be realised in an indirect way using elements that are environmentally friendly.
Therefore, the proposed upgrading of facilities scheduled for completion by 2024 at the Niah National Park, will abide strictly to the UNESCO guidelines, through nature integrated architecture, without jeopardising the existing ecosystem.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the added value would feature a new pathway from the Niah Natural Park Headquarters with the installation of buggy services to the cave entrance, dedicated for the elderly.
Adding that the selection of a contractor is vital at adhering to the requirements set by UNESCO in which once such recognition is granted and the contractor fails to deliver it could risk the list being stripped in future.
“Apart from the upgrading works in tandem with the UNESCO Heritage Site declaration, contractor shouldn’t jeopardise the ecosystem of Niah Natural Park,” he said this during a press conference after officiating the International Conference of Niah National Park World Heritage Nomination Site held at Pullman Hotel here.
He noted that once Niah is declared a UNESCO heritage site it will have a colossal impact in Miri especially in terms of tourism, taking the distance of Niah from Miri as compared to Mulu, also taking into consideration the costing.
“If Niah received the certification it will automatically put Miri in the world map it might become one of the must visit place whenever people are in Miri,” he stressed.
Abdul Karim also urged the community to play their role in the conservation of nature while being involved in the tourism industry.
“When people start coming in to appreciate Niah, there are other ways of making money from these visitors be it hospitality, cultural, food and beverage.
Abdul Karim noted that this is the new jewel for the industry, before if they rely on Guano the dropping and bird nest as a source of income, the community can diversify their income for example weaving baskets and introducing new products can be sold to tourists. -TVS
