Geoheritage of the Gua Ikan Karst Complex (GIKC), Stong Geopark, Dabong, Kuala Krai District, Kelantan, Malaysia: Evaluation for Geotourism Opportunities

Abstract

The Gua Ikan Karst Complex (GIKC) is one of the geosite in the Stong Geopark. It consists of spectacular Middle Permian–Late Triassic Gua Musang Formation karst topography, represented by four (4) caves i.e., Gua Ikan, Gua Keris, Gua Pagar, and Gua Gelap. The GIKC can be potentially developed for nature-based tourism since it holds great geoheritage values. The aim of this research is to evaluate the current state of geotourism condition (qualitatively/quantitatively) and geoheritage features of the GIKC using two (2) values in the Modified Geosite Assessment Model (M- GAM) i.e., the Main Value (MV) and Additional Value (AV). The results indicate that the GIKC offers high Scientific/Educational Value (VSE); in the aspect of karst geomorphology (underground river caves, valley/wang, cave chambers, unique shape of stalactite/stalagmite/columns), lithology (metamorphosed limestone of the Gua Musang Formation and the Taku Shist), and palaeogeographic features (coral fossils, sea notch). In summary, the Total Main Value (∑MV) are Gua Ikan (9.73), Gua Keris (9.39), Gua Pagar (9.27) and Gua Gelap (8.66). The Total Additional Value (∑AV) are Gua Ikan (11.56), Gua Keris (11.25), Gua Pagar (11.04) and Gua Gelap (10.98). This paper’s findings reveal a comprehensive base for the improvement, planning, and management of the GIKC to become a geotourism end-point.