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Celebrating Networking in Geotourism
Innovate – Connect – Transform

Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark is proud to host the APGN Symposium 2026, where international experts, geopark managers, researchers, and industry professionals will gather to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaborate on the future of sustainable geotourism.

This symposium provides a unique opportunity to discuss the latest innovations, trends, and best practices in geopark management, networking, and educational.

4 ~ 12 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 📍 Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark, Malaysia

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

APGN Symposium 2026

The APGN Symposium 2026 invites you to an extraordinary gathering of geopark professionals, researchers, policymakers, educators, and tourism experts to explore innovative ways to foster sustainable geotourism. Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark, a jewel of natural and cultural heritage, is thrilled to host this milestone event, offering a platform for dynamic discussions, insightful exchanges, and transformative collaborations.

“Celebrating Networking in Geotourism”

This year’s theme highlights the importance of building resilient networks among geoparks to inspire innovation, foster meaningful connections, and lead transformative actions for sustainable development.

– Innovate –

Explore cutting-edge ideas
and practices to
enrich geotourism initiatives.

– Connect –

Strengthen collaborations
between geoparks and
their communities worldwide.

– Transform –

Drive sustainable change
through shared
experiences and strategies.

Together, we aim to elevate geotourism’s potential as a force for conservation, education, and community empowerment.

Program HighlightsAbout Us

INNOVATE CONNECT TRANSFORM⚬

Spotlight On: What You’ll Experience

Program Highlights

Plenary Sessions

Engage with renowned speakers sharing insights on geotourism, sustainability, and global best practices.

Poster Presentations

Explore cutting-edge research and success stories in geotourism and conservation from around the world.

Thematic Workshops, Forums & Dialogues

Celebrating Networking in Geotourism
Engage in stimulating panel discussions and dialogue sessions focused on the theme of “Celebrating Networking in Geotourism,” emphasizing the importance of partnerships in driving sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.

Geopark Fair

Explore diverse exhibits showcasing the latest innovations, research, and success stories from geoparks worldwide, along with displays of cultural heritage and local crafts.

Field Trips

Exploring Langkawi’s diverse geosites, including Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest and Kilim Karst Geoforest and Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest.

Networking Events

Build meaningful connections with participants from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, including geopark managers, researchers, educators, and industry partners, fostering collaborations and exchanging best practices.

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION

Calling for Abstracts

Participants are invited to contribute papers, case studies, and best-practice sharing under the following thematic tracks.
These themes reflect the core pillars of UNESCO Global Geoparks and the Asia Pacific Geoparks Network.

 

Abstract submission will be open soon.

Topics of Interest

Heritage Conservation

Exploring strategies to preserve both tangible and intangible cultural and geological heritage, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.

  • Geoheritage Conservation
  • Integrated Heritage Conservation
Geotourism and Public Education

Highlighting creative approaches to design geotourism experiences that captivate visitors while upholding environmental and cultural integrity.

  • Community Empowerment
  • Innovation in Geotourism Products
  • Education for the Future
Social and Community Development

Highlighting inclusive development models that generate socio-economic benefits, empower local communities, and promote equitable participation within geoparks.

  • Social and Private Enterprises
  • Geopark Gastronomy
  • Women, Youths and Indigenous Peoples
Aspiring UNESCO Global Geoparks (aUGGp)

Sharing experiences, methodologies, and lessons learned in geopark development, documentation of geoheritage significance, and pathways toward UNESCO Global Geopark designation.

  • Preparation and Development
  • Geological Heritage of International Value
Geopark Governance and Management

Examining flexible and adaptive governance models, strategic partnerships, and best practices that enhance geopark management, visibility, and regional collaboration.

  • Innovative Management
  • Networking and Outreach
  • Best Practices
Special Topics on Geoparks

Addressing emerging challenges and global issues, including disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, and the role of geoparks in promoting peace and sustainable regional development.

  • Hazard and Climate Change
  • Regional Sustainable Development and Peace
Morning Session I

08:00AM ~ 10:00AM

GGN Council Meeting

10:00AM ~ 11:00AM

Tea Break and Networking
Morning Session II

11:00AM ~ 01:00PM

GGN Council Meeting

01:00PM ~ 03:00PM

Luncheon and Business Talk
Evening Session

03:00PM ~ 10:00PM

GGN Council Meeting
Morning Session I

08:00AM ~ 10:00AM

GGN Council Meeting

10:00AM ~ 11:00AM

Tea Break and Networking
Morning Session II

11:00AM ~ 01:00PM

GGN Council Meeting

01:00PM ~ 03:00PM

Luncheon and Business Talk
Evening Session

03:00PM ~ 10:00PM

GGN Council Meeting
Morning Session I

08:00AM ~ 10:00AM

GGN Executive Board Meeting

10:00AM ~ 11:00AM

Tea Break and Networking
Morning Session II

11:00AM ~ 01:00PM

APGN AC Meeting

01:00PM ~ 03:00PM

Luncheon and Business Talk
Evening Session

03:00PM ~ 08:00PM

· APGN General Meeting / Election
· Registration

08:00PM ~ 10:00PM

Ice Breaking
Morning Session I

08:00AM ~ 10:00AM

· Opening
· Keynote 1

10:00AM ~ 11:00AM

Tea Break and Networking
Morning Session II

11:00AM ~ 01:00PM

Session 1

01:00PM ~ 03:00PM

Luncheon and Business Talk
Evening Session I

03:00PM ~ 05:00PM

Session 2

05:00PM ~ 6:00PM

Tea Break and Networking
Evening Session II

06:00PM ~ 08:00PM

· Poster Session 1
· Geopark Fair Opening

08:00PM ~ 10:00PM

· Opening Dinner
· Free & Easy
Morning Session I

08:00AM ~ 10:00AM

· Keynote 2
· Session 3

10:00AM ~ 11:00AM

Tea Break and Networking
Morning Session II

11:00AM ~ 01:00PM

Session 4

01:00PM ~ 03:00PM

Luncheon and Business Talk
Evening Session I

03:00PM ~ 05:00PM

Session 5

05:00PM ~ 6:00PM

Tea Break and Networking
Evening Session II

06:00PM ~ 08:00PM

· Poster Session 2
· Youth Program
· Forum / Working Group Workshop

08:00PM ~ 10:00PM

Free & Easy

08:00AM ~ 08:00PM

Mid-Symposium Fieldtrip

08:00PM ~ 10:00PM

Free & Easy
Morning Session I

08:00AM ~ 10:00AM

· Keynote 3
· Session 6

10:00AM ~ 11:00AM

Tea Break and Networking
Morning Session II

11:00AM ~ 01:00PM

Session 7

01:00PM ~ 03:00PM

Luncheon and Business Talk
Evening Session I

03:00PM ~ 05:00PM

Session 8

05:00PM ~ 6:00PM

Tea Break and Networking
Evening Session II

06:00PM ~ 08:00PM

Closing Ceremony

08:00PM ~ 10:00PM

Farewell Dinner

08:00PM ~ 08:00PM

Post-Symposium Tour
· Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark
· Lenggong UNESCO Global Geopark
· Sarawak Delta UNESCO Global Geopark

08:00PM ~ 08:00PM

Post-Symposium Tour
· Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark
· Lenggong UNESCO Global Geopark
· Sarawak Delta UNESCO Global Geopark
Symposium Venue

Langkawi International Convention Centre (LICC)

The APGN Symposium 2026 will take place at the Langkawi International Convention Centre (LICC), a premier venue in Langkawi known for hosting international events.

The centerpiece venue for plenary sessions, talks, and cultural events — part of the St. Regis Langkawi complex with world-class meeting spaces, flexible conference halls, and sustainable event features.

Bring me there
About APGN

Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN)

The Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) connects UNESCO Global Geoparks across the Asia-Pacific region, fostering cooperation, knowledge exchange, and best practices in geopark management while supporting sustainable development and community engagement. Through regional collaboration and partnerships, APGN advances sustainable geotourism, promotes environmental education, and highlights the importance of geological heritage in conserving natural and cultural resources and supporting local economic development.

🎯 Core Objectives of APGN
  • Promote Sustainable Geotourism
    Encouraging tourism that respects and conserves geological, natural, and cultural heritage.
  • Support Geopark Development
    Providing capacity building, training, and knowledge sharing for current and aspiring UNESCO Global Geoparks.
  • Strengthen Regional Cooperation
    Facilitating collaboration and partnerships among geoparks throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
  • Enhance Awareness & Education
    Raising public awareness of geological heritage and fostering environmental education initiatives.
The APGN Symposium

The APGN Symposium is a flagship regional event that brings together geopark professionals to share experiences, discuss innovations, and collaborate on future initiatives, supporting APGN’s broader mission of preserving Earth’s geological heritage while promoting cultural diversity, sustainable tourism, and the well-being of local communities.

About Langkawi UGGp

Malaysia’s Natural & Cultural Treasure

The Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark is Malaysia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, officially recognized in 2007. Located in the Langkawi Archipelago in the state of Kedah, it is part of the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) and represents a unique integration of geological, natural, and cultural heritage.

🌋 Geological Heritage and Natural Landscapes

Covering approximately 478 square kilometres, the geopark features remarkable limestone hills, ancient karst formations, mangrove swamps, coastal wetlands, and tropical rainforests. These landscapes provide valuable insights into the region’s geological evolution, dating back to the Cambrian period, making Langkawi an important site for geoscientific research and education.

Rich Biodiversity

Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark is home to diverse ecosystems that support a wide range of flora and fauna, including tropical plants, birds, reptiles, mammals, and marine species. This rich biodiversity enhances the geopark’s significance for conservation and nature-based tourism.

Governance and Sustainable Management

The geopark is managed by the Langkawi Geopark Coordination Committee (LGC), which brings together government agencies, academic institutions, non-governmental organizations, and local communities. This collaborative approach ensures that development, conservation, and tourism initiatives align with UNESCO’s principles of sustainability and community involvement.

The Planning Powerhouse

Organizing Committee

Information will be updated soon.

Symposium and Geopark Fair Registration

Registration will open soon

Information will be updated soon.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
Your Gateway to Paradise

Travel to Langkawi

Langkawi is well connected by air and sea, making it easily accessible for regional and international delegates.
Langkawi International Airport (LGK) serves as the main entry point to the island.

By Flight

Direct international flights to Langkawi include:

  • Singapore
  • Tashkent, Uzbekistan
  • Dubai, United Arab Emirates
  • Bangalore, India

In addition, Langkawi is well connected via frequent domestic flights from major Malaysian cities such as:

  • Kuala Lumpur (KLIA & Subang)
  • Penang
  • Johor Bahru

Delegates may also transit through Kuala Lumpur or Singapore for onward connections to Langkawi.

By Ferry

Ferry services provide a scenic and convenient alternative route to Langkawi.

Domestic ferry routes:

  • Kuala Kedah → Langkawi
  • Kuala Perlis → Langkawi

International ferry route:

  • Tammalang Jetty, Satun, Thailand → Langkawi

This international sea connection offers easy access for participants travelling from southern Thailand and neighbouring regions.

Immigration & Visa Information
Entry into Malaysia

All international delegates travelling to Langkawi must:

  • Hold a valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • Comply with Malaysian immigration, customs, and health regulations
Malaysia Arrival Card (MDAC) – Mandatory

All overseas travellers entering Malaysia are required to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before arrival.

  • MDAC must be submitted online within 3 days prior to arrival
  • Applies to all foreign passport holders, including those who are visa-exempt
  • Travellers will need to present MDAC confirmation during immigration clearance

Delegates are strongly advised to complete the MDAC early to ensure a smooth entry process.

Visa Requirements
  • Citizens of many countries are visa-exempt for short stays in Malaysia
  • Some nationalities are required to obtain a tourist or social visit visa prior to travel

Participants should:

  • Check the latest visa requirements with the nearest Malaysian Embassy or High Commission
  • Ensure visa approval is obtained before departure, where applicable
Entry via Thailand (Ferry Route)

Delegates entering Langkawi via the Tammalang Jetty, Satun (Thailand) ferry route must:

  • Clear Thai exit immigration
  • Complete Malaysian immigration and customs upon arrival in Langkawi
  • Ensure that MDAC submission is completed prior to arrival
  • Confirm eligibility for entry into Malaysia via sea border
Important Reminder

Immigration requirements are subject to change. Delegates are advised to regularly check official Malaysian immigration announcements prior to travel.

Weather in Langkawi

September 2026

Average temp

27°C ~ 31°C

Warm & Humid

Expect tropical island climate during the symposium month:

  • Rain: frequent showers possible; short rain bursts typical of equatorial weather
  • Humid, with dynamic sea breezes from the Andaman Sea — great for outdoor exploration when organized.

Tips for delegates:
Lightweight rain gear, sunscreen, comfortable outdoor shoes, and refillable water bottles are recommended.

Accommodation

Here is a range of friendly options with approximate price and proximity:

Luxury
  • The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa
    Premium 5★ resort with beachside amenities; close to LICC
  • The St. Regis Langkawi
    Ultra-luxury with private beach and wellness facilities; close to LICC
Mid-Range
  • Bayview Hotel Langkawi
    Centrally located in Kuah, good value
  • Ramada by Wyndham Langkawi Marina
    Well-reviewed mid-range hotel near the waterfront
  • Adya Hotel Langkawi
Budget / Comfort
  • Bella Vista Waterfront Resort
  • De Baron Resort
  • HIG Hotel
  • Langkawi Seaview
  • Goldsands Hotel
  • Eagle Bay Hotel
  • HiG Hotel
Note

Kuah is about 10–15 min by car to Langkawi International Convention Centre (LICC).

INNOVATE CONNECT TRANSFORM⚬