KUALA LUMPUR: The Mineral and Geoscience Department did not receive any applications for technical reviews from the operator or local authority regarding Gua Lepak Restuarant that operates in a limestone cave.
Director-general Datuk Zamri Ramli said the developers must apply with the local authorities for development in the area, who in turn seek technical reviews from the department, one of the state's technical agencies.
"Any development in limestone hill areas must refer to the Guidelines for Determining Hazard Zones Around Limestone Hills issued by the Mineral and Geoscience Department to determine safety zones around limestone hills.
Zamri also raised concerns about the safety and environmental impact of the Gua Lepak Restaurant located in the National Gombak-Hulu Langat Geopark (GHL Geopark), as issues were being raised several times in the local media.
"The concerns include the safety of visitors, geological disaster risks, on-site fossil preservation, the restaurant's operating permit status, vandalism risks, disruption to endemic biodiversity, and issues regarding the preservation and sustainability of the geological site.
"The well-being of the community and the generation of local economic value are essential elements that can add value to a geopark," he added.
In the context of geopark development, Zamri said the value-added activity must be aligned with the concept involving three important elements: conservation, education, and sustainable development.
Gua Lepak Restaurant has been operating since March Last year and since then, generated significant attention on social media, according to The Star.