By: Zaki Salleh
LENGGONG — Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has become the first university to establish an official research centre within the Lenggong UNESCO Global Geopark, strengthening efforts to position the area as a world-class open education hub.
Lenggong MP Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the initiative embraces a learning concept rooted in landscape, heritage and community — rather than relying solely on traditional classroom infrastructure.
The approach, he added, is fully aligned with UNESCO Global Geopark principles, which integrate education, research and community empowerment.
The initiative was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UTM and the Lenggong Geopark Management Body. The ceremony was officiated by Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, attended by university representatives and members of the academic community.
Dr Shamsul Anuar said the collaboration was made possible following discussions with UTM Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, himself a native of Lenggong.
He also expressed appreciation to UTM for taking the lead in introducing a geopark-based education model.
As part of the programme, a total of 20 universities and private educational institutions participated in an academic visit to the geopark area, aimed at introducing the Open Education Centre (OEC) concept based on a “living classroom” approach.
The visit and related activities were jointly organised by the Lenggong Tourism Council and the Lenggong Geopark Management Body.
