Benefits of geoparks from the perspective of local communities: A case study of Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, Malaysia

Geoparks represent a dynamic nexus between geological heritage, ecological preservation, and sustainable development. Within this framework, the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark (KUGGp) in Malaysia was officially designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark on 26th May 2023. It stands as a paragon of geotourism, uniting local communities, cultural legacy, and natural wonders under the broader agenda of sustainable tourism. However, the extent to which these benefits are recognized by local communities, particularly in Kota Belud, remains inadequately explored. Understanding these perspectives is crucial for aligning geotourism initiatives with community aspirations and fostering sustainable development. This study investigates the perceived benefits of geoparks among the Kota Belud community using a mixed-methods approach. A total of 225 respondents from the community of Kota Belud participated in this study. The quantitative data were triangulated with the data from in-depth interviews with eight community representatives. Using a five-point Likert scale, the survey consists of 31 items constructed based on the UNWTO conceptual framework of the three pillars of tourism sustainable development: economy, social, and environment. Complementary in-depth interviews with eight representatives provided qualitative insights, enhancing the robustness of findings. Survey results indicate strong agreement on the benefits of geoparks in enhancing local economies (mean = 4.36), fostering social cohesion (mean = 4.28), and promoting environmental conservation (mean = 4.24). Thematic analysis further highlights the dimensions such as income generation, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship. This study underscores the transformative potential of geoparks and offers practical insights for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance geotourism strategies aligned with sustainable development goals.