Geoscience Programme, Faculty of Earth Science, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan,
UMK Jeli Campus, Locked Bag No. 100, 17600 Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia
*Corresponding author: dony_geology@yahoo.com.my
Abstract: The Labuan Island in East Malaysia possesses some geological features with geoheritage values. A study on the new list of potential geoheritage sites has been carried out in the island through some systematic steps includingidentification, characterization, classification, assessment, and evaluation of eight (8) geosites: Tanjung Punei Beach, turbidite outcrops in Kampung Bebuloh, Tanjung Batu Beach, Labuan mud volcanoes in Kampung Layang-layangan, Tanjung Layang-layangan Beach, coal-bearing strata and oil seepages in Kampung Ganggarak, historical coal mining sites in Tanjung Kubong, and Tanjung Kubong Beach (Bethune Head – Kubong Bluff). These potential geoheritage sites have their own unique characteristics such as distinctive rocks (lithological/petrological sites), landform/landscape features (geomorphological sites), and fossil occurrences (paleontological sites). Other sites exhibit some unique processes/phenomena such as mud volcanoes and oil seepages. In term of scale, they range between small to medium sizes. These geological resources have been assessed based on some geodiversity/geoheritage values including scientific (and educational), aesthetic, recreational, cultural, and some other values, with the local level of significance. SWOT analysis has been conducted to evaluate these potential geoheritage resources. All these geoheritage resources are expected to be utilized properly, such as for research and educational activities as well as geotourism development.
Keywords: Geoheritage, geoheritage values, geosite, geotourism, Labuan Island, East Malaysia
https://doi.org/10.7186/bgsm62201613
