heritage nomination / NGO proposal

Draft: Heritage Nomination & NGO Collaboration Proposal

Proposal for Heritage Recognition and Conservation

Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos, Tawau, Sabah

Malaysia’s Only Columnar Basalt – A Geological Masterpiece

1. Executive Summary

The Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos, located in Tawau, Sabah, represents a nationally unique geological formation and is currently the only confirmed columnar basalt site in Malaysia. Formed approximately 27,000 years ago through Quaternary volcanic activity associated with Mount Maria, this site holds exceptional scientific, educational, cultural, and eco-tourism value.

This proposal seeks heritage recognition, conservation support, and NGO collaboration to protect the site, enhance public awareness, and promote sustainable, community-led geo-heritage tourism involving the Cocos Malay community of Kg Balung Cocos.

2. Site Description and Location

• Site Name: Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos
• Local Names: Batu Bersusun / Giram Nek Legek
• Location: Kg Balung Cocos, Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia
• Geographical Context: Along a 100-metre stretch of the Balung River
• Accessibility: Approximately 40 km from Tawau town (1-hour drive), followed by a 1 km walk

The site is accessible yet remains largely natural, retaining high integrity and authenticity.

3. Geological Significance

The Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos was formed when basaltic lava cooled rapidly during a volcanic eruption from Mount Maria in the Quaternary period. As the lava contracted, it fractured into vertical columns, primarily hexagonal and pentagonal in shape.

Key features include:

• Column diameters of approximately 30–40 cm
• Clearly defined vertical pillars
• Continuous exposure along the riverbank
• Excellent preservation suitable for research and education

This formation provides crucial evidence of volcanic processes in the Tawau–Semporna volcanic region and is of high scientific value at both national and regional levels.

4. Rarity and National Importance

Unlike other volcanic rock outcrops in Malaysia, no other confirmed columnar basalt formation exists in the country. This makes the Kg Balung Cocos site:

• Geologically irreplaceable
• A potential flagship geo-heritage site for Sabah
• A valuable educational resource for Malaysian students

Its rarity alone justifies formal heritage recognition and long-term protection.

5. Cultural and Community Context

The site lies within Kg Balung Cocos, home to the Cocos Malay community, whose traditional names and local knowledge reflect a long-standing relationship with the landscape.

Community involvement offers:

• Cultural interpretation for visitors
• Local stewardship and monitoring
• Opportunities for sustainable livelihood through eco-tourism

Any conservation or tourism initiative should prioritise community-led participation.

6. Current and Potential Threats

While the site remains relatively intact, potential risks include:

• Unregulated visitor access
• Physical damage to columns
• Lack of interpretive signage
• Limited public awareness

Early intervention through education and conservation planning can prevent long-term degradation.

7. Proposed Objectives

This proposal aims to:

1. Secure heritage or geo-heritage recognition at district, state, or national level
2. Support conservation and site management planning
3. Promote scientific research and educational use
4. Develop low-impact, sustainable geo-tourism
5. Empower the local Cocos Malay community through participation and training

8. Proposed Activities

Potential collaborative activities include:

• Geological documentation and mapping
• Installation of interpretive signage (science + culture)
• Educational field programmes for schools and universities
• Community guide training
• Awareness campaigns (online and on-site)
• NGO–community–academic partnerships

9. Stakeholders and Partners

Suggested stakeholders include:

• Local NGOs (environmental, heritage, education)
• Universities and research institutions
• Sabah tourism and heritage authorities
• Local community leadership of Kg Balung Cocos

10. Expected Outcomes

• Increased national awareness of Malaysia’s only columnar basalt
• Improved protection and site integrity
• Enhanced educational opportunities
• Sustainable visitor management
• Strengthened community pride and participation

11. Conclusion

The Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos is a rare geological treasure that embodies Sabah’s volcanic history, scientific value, and cultural landscape. Formal heritage recognition and NGO collaboration will ensure that this Geological Masterpiece is preserved responsibly for future generations, while benefiting local communities and advancing education.

Prepared for heritage bodies, NGOs, academic institutions, and conservation partners.

What I can do next (very useful options):

• Shorten this into a 2-page NGO pitch
• Rewrite for Sabah Government / Tourism Board format
• Create a BM (Bahasa Malaysia) version
• Add a budget & timeline section
• Align it with UNESCO Global Geopark language
• Turn this into a downloadable PDF proposal

Just tell me which direction you want to take — this proposal has strong potential 🌋🏞️