RANAU: Sabah's Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew, has identified three districts boasting Unesco Global Geopark status as potential hubs for cycling sports tourism.
Ranau, Kota Marudu, and Kota Belud, renowned for their natural beauty and majestic Mount Kinabalu backdrop, are set to capture the attention of cycling enthusiasts worldwide.
In a statement released after flagging off 80 cyclists from the three districts at the Poring Hot Spring Sub-Station, Liew expressed enthusiasm for the cycling sports potential within these districts.
"Today's event will have a positive impact on tourism development and the sustainability of nature in Sabah.
"We believe that community-based tourism in these three districts can provide great returns to the state government." said Liew.
She highlighted that in addition to their natural attractions, these areas are steeped in cultural richness, heritage, and various other charms.
The Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark Cycling Tour 2024, a three-day event symbolising Sabah's Unesco Triple Crown Achievement, commenced today with an 185-km route that will conclude in Kota Belud on Saturday.
This coincides with the diamond jubilee celebration of Sabah Parks at Dataran Kota Belud.
Participants in the cycling tour are set to make six stops, engaging with local communities along the route.
The Minister expressed her support for Sabah Parks' initiative.
"I am here to support Sabah Parks' initiative. The cycling exploration is not only historic for Sabah Parks with the award of Unesco Global Geopark status, but it also complements Sabah's achievement of Unesco Triple Crown recognition, alongside the Kinabalu Park World Heritage Site and the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve." she said.
The flagging-off ceremony was attended by key figures such as Sabah Parks chairman Peter Lintar, director Dr. Maklarin Lakim, Sri Pelancongan Sabah CEO Thonny Chee, and Sabapak Eco CEO Remysta Taylor, showcasing widespread support for this initiative within Sabah's tourism sector.