IPOH: The Perak state executive council has given its approval to designate the site of ancient coral fossil discoveries in Kampung Changkat Tualang, Kampar, as a geosite within the Kinta Valley Geopark. This decision marks a significant step in preserving the area for geological tourism and related activities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nizarulikram Abdul Rahim, director of the Perak Department of Mineral and Geoscience, stated that the agreement to gazette the area, which includes the Lombong Batu and Lombong Bakap geosites, was reached in June. However, the official declaration of the site as a reserve area will require additional time due to the necessary administrative processes.
The media had previously reported on June 22 that researchers from the Perak Natural Heritage Geopark Tourist Guides Association (GEONAT) uncovered an array of ancient coral fossils in the region, estimated to be around 300 million years old. This discovery prompted State Communications, Multimedia and Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGO) Committee chairman Mohd Azlan Helmi to announce plans to officially recognize the site as a geosite.
Nizarulikram emphasized the site’s potential for geotourism, citing its scientific, aesthetic, historical, and cultural significance. The Perak State Parks Corporation will collaborate with Nizarulikram’s team to conduct geosite mapping activities in 2025.
The gazetting process involves several steps, including boundary measurements, proposed activities, and the appointment of site administrators. The total area of the geosites spans 27.92 hectares, hosting marine-origin fossils such as gastropoda, rugosa, and crinoids, all dating back approximately 300 million years.
Nizarulikram stressed the importance of gazetting to prevent encroachment and outlined how the local community could benefit from the development of tourism packages in the area. Proposed activities include ecological tourism such as kayaking, fishing, and guided tours to view the limestone pinnacle outcrops and marine foss
ils.
The designation of the site as a geopark would introduce a unique attraction to the Kinta Valley Geopark, as it would be the first marine fossil-based site in the area, contrasting with existing geosites featuring terrestrial fossils like elephant teeth and tiger skulls.