Global Network of National Geoparks

Regional Conference on Asia-Pacific Geoparks will be held on 13-15 November 2007

Published :July 27, 2007

 

Background

A Geopark is a nationally protected area containing a number of geological heritage sites of particular importance, rarity or aesthetic appeal. It is part of an integrated concept of protection, education and sustainable development. The concept of linking sustainable development with geoheritage, conservation, education and tourism is rather new to the Asia Pacific region. In order to promote the development of National Geoparks among countries in the Asia-Pacific region, the first regional Conference on Asia-Pacific Network of National Geoparks is organised to take place in November 2007.This provides platform for scholars and various stakeholders to discuss and exchange ideas on pressing issues of the sustainable use and management of geoheritage in each country.In the region, only China is vigorous in this pursuit, totalling more than 138 National Geoparks, 18 of which are currently members of the Global Network of National Geoparks assisted by UNESCO. Thus, it is in the interest of the knowledge of the natural and cultural resources and the links with landscape, that wider awareness and involvement in this region are crucial.

Venue:

13 - 15 November 2007, the Conference will be held in Langkawi, the first National Geopark in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Langkawi is one of the rare island geoparks in the world comprising 99 islands, possesses the region’s oldest rocks and the most complete Palaeozoic geological history. Several Langkawi geoheritage sites are of regional importance and should be preserved for the future generations. As such, Langkawi Geopark was declared a National Geopark on the 31st May 2006 and has been endorsed as the 52nd member of the UNESCO Global Network of National Geoparks on 1stJune 2007.

Objectives

  1. to discuss the progress of conservation of geological heritage in the Asia-Pacific region,
  2. to discuss issues of conservation and sustainable use of 'geoheritage' among various stakeholders,
  3. to promote development of National Geoparks among Asia-Pacific countries,
  4. to establish an Asia-Pacific Network of National Geoparks.

Call for Papers

Participants who wish to present oral or poster papers are invited to submit their abstracts of no more than 300 words in digital form to the Secretariat at noryati@pkrisc.cc.ukm.my or apgc2007@langkawigeopark.com.my with the subject title of “APGBD2007 Abstract”, by 31 August 2007. The following information should be included: TITLE (in block letters), NAME & AFFILIATION of Convener(s), including both postal and email addresses and both fax and telephone numbers; ABSTRACT of not more than 300 words. Upon notification of acceptance, full papers should be submitted together with registration form and fee by 30 October 2007.

Format of Abstract and Full Paper

Abstract must be written in English using Microsoft Office Word document, using double spacing A4 page, with 2.5 cm margins all round. Please use Times New Roman size 11 pt. and underline the name and email of presenting author. Please do not cite any reference in the abstract and try not to exceed 300 words. Papers will be compiled and distributed at the Conference.

Presentation Guidelines

Oral

Format of oral presentations must be in PowerPoint for Windows 2000 or XP, or PowerPoint for Macintosh OSX. PowerPoint presentation files can be submitted when registering on the day of the Conference.

Posters

Posters are recommended A1 size (23 x 33 inches). Posters can only be attached to the poster board surface with thumbtacks, which will be provided by the organizing committee. Each poster presentation must display the following information: TITLE, AUTHORS’S NAMES, AFFILIATIONS, and ADDRESSES. A simple format should be used, with letters large enough to be easily read from a distance of 2 meters.

Accommodation

Hotel and other accommodation in Langkawi are concentrated within a one-kilometer radius of the Conference venue. These accommodations have good access to the airport as well to Kuah, the biggest town in Langkawi.Participants may choose to stay in nearby resorts listed below.Bookings can be made online.

Langkasuka Beach Resort :

www.langkawi-resorts.com/langkasuka

Tel : (604) 9556888 ;Faks :(604) 95555888

Langkawi Holiday Villa Beach Resort and Spa

www.holidayvillahotellangkawi.com/index.html

Tel : (604)9551701 ;Faks: (604) 9551504

Emel :reservation@lgkhvl.com

The Frangipani Langkawi Resort and Spa:

www.frangipanilangkawi.com

Tel : (604) 952 0000 ;Faks : (604) 952 0001

Emel : roslan@frangipanilangkawi.com

Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa

www.pelangibeach.com

Tel: (604) 952 8888 Fax: (604) 952 8899
resvn.pbl@meritus-hotels.com

Notes: Foreign participants are advised to check with the Malaysian Embassy or Consulate in their homeland on matters pertaining to visa requirement and application. For further information about Malaysia and tourism in Malaysia, please visit the official website of Malaysia Tourism Development Board at www.tourism.gov.my. Participants are encouraged to make early registration directly with the hotel. Please use the enclosed form and fax it directly to the hotel.Arrangements are being made with the participating hotels to obtain special rates for the participants.

Programme, Registration Form, Invitation


Contact: Margarete Patzak