Perlis Halts Cave Cafe Project At Gua Cenderawasih

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The Perlis government decided to permanently halt operations for the cafe project at Gua Cenderawasih after considering the safety aspects and the geotourism site’s conservation.
Perlis state executive councillor for tourism, arts and culture, and rural development, Abu Bakar Hamzah, said the decision was reached following a site visit and a Scientific Committee Meeting on June 11.
He said there were also several discussions with the local authority, the Minerals and Geoscience Department, university experts, and related agencies.
“The built structures inside the cave will be completely removed to ensure visitor safety and protect its geological heritage value.
ADS“Construction is only permitted in the area outside this cave, subject to technical approval and compliance with guidelines set by the Kangar Municipal Council and Minerals and Geoscience Department,” said Abu Bakar at a press conference in Kangar today.
On May 18, it was reported that the Minerals and Geoscience Department had not received any formal application from the operator or the local authority for technical review regarding the development or operations of the cafe inside Gua Cenderawasih.
In the report, the department also stated that the Bukit Lagi Geosite was formed from Setul Formation limestone, dating back over 480 million years, and is rich in various types of fossils such as nautiloids, gastropods, and brachiopods.
The area was also said to feature unique geological characteristics, including ancient sea notches, small caves, and mushroom-shaped and skull-shaped rock formations.
Previously, the media also reported that the proposed cafe construction drew objections from several NGOs that were concerned the cafe would jeopardise the geological heritage there.
Abu Bakar said that dismantling parts of the cafe that had been constructed in the cave would be carried out carefully, using safe methods like water and special brushes, without damaging any fossils or highly valuable structures in the cave.
Abu Bakar Hamzah“Additionally, tagging will be implemented in identified fossil areas, while detailed mapping will be carried out around the affected geosite,” he said.
He added that the cafe operator’s proposal for redevelopment outside the cave could be resubmitted to the local council, but no permanent structures were permitted inside the cave area.
Abu Bakar said the state government would also enhance public awareness through signboards and involve various parties, including NGOs, schools, and local communities, in preserving Gua Cenderawasih and other geoparks in the state.
He also emphasised that the state did not reject development, but that it should be implemented prudently, considering the sensitivity of the recognised geopark areas.
- Bernama

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