Indonesia’s Kebumen and Meratus Geoparks Earn UNESCO Recognition

Indonesia has added two more geological treasures to the UNESCO Global Geoparks list, with Kebumen in Central Java and Meratus in South Kalimantan receiving international recognition. Announced by the Foreign Ministry on April 17, 2025, this designation by the UNESCO executive board in Paris marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to preserve its natural and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable development.

A Global Stamp of Geological Significance

The inclusion of Kebumen and Meratus among the 16 newly approved global geoparks worldwide underscores Indonesia’s rich geological diversity. According to the Foreign Ministry, the recognition followed nominations by the Global Geoparks Council late last year. “The UNESCO recognition is evidence of Indonesia’s contribution to preserving Earth heritage” said Mohamad Oemar, Indonesia’s permanent delegate to UNESCO and ambassador to France. “At the same time, it signifies a responsibility to preserve, manage sustainably and promote our geological sites and culture” he added.

A UNESCO Global Geopark is defined as an area of international geological significance, managed through a framework that integrates conservation, public education, and sustainable development. With this latest addition, Indonesia now boasts 12 such sites, joining other renowned locations like Raja Ampat in Papua, celebrated for its underwater splendor, and Rinjani-Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara, home to the iconic Mount Rinjani and its crescent-shaped crater lake, Segara Anak.

Kebumen Geopark: A Window into Ancient Tectonics

Situated in the southern part of Central Java, Kebumen Geopark spans approximately 1,100 square kilometers. Its landscape is a striking contrast of conical hills in the southwest and flat alluvial plains in the southeast. According to UNESCO documentation, the geopark holds records of plate tectonic activities dating back 119 million years, offering a rare glimpse into Earth’s ancient past. These geological features not only captivate scientists but also draw visitors eager to explore the region’s unique terrain.

Beyond its scientific value, Kebumen’s designation as a global geopark is expected to bolster local tourism and community engagement. The status encourages sustainable practices, ensuring that economic benefits from increased visitors do not come at the expense of environmental degradation. Local authorities and communities are now tasked with balancing growth with preservation, a challenge that could set a precedent for other regions in Indonesia.

Meratus Geopark: Rare Oceanic Crust in South Kalimantan

In South Kalimantan, the Meratus Geopark covers a vast 3,600 square kilometers at the region’s southern tip. Its landscape is a tapestry of valleys, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and karst formations, providing a habitat for the Banjar and Dayak communities. The centerpiece of the geopark is the Meratus Mountains, which feature ophiolite—an exposed section of oceanic crust that is globally rare. UNESCO notes that while ophiolites exist elsewhere in Indonesia, the Meratus sequence is the most complete and the oldest in the country.

The cultural significance of Meratus is as profound as its geological allure. The region’s indigenous communities have long lived in harmony with the rugged terrain, their traditions intertwined with the land. The UNESCO recognition offers an opportunity to showcase this cultural heritage alongside natural wonders, potentially transforming Meratus into a hub for eco-tourism and education.

Boosting Indonesia’s Tourism and Conservation Efforts

The designation of Kebumen and Meratus brings Indonesia’s total UNESCO Global Geoparks to 12, placing it among the leading nations in this category. Other notable sites include the Toba Caldera in North Sumatra, Batur in Bali, and Ciletuh in West Java, each offering unique geological and cultural narratives. The status of a UNESCO Global Geopark often translates into increased visibility, attracting international tourists and researchers alike, which can significantly boost local economies.

However, with recognition comes responsibility. The Indonesian government, alongside local stakeholders, must ensure that these sites are protected from overdevelopment and environmental harm. Sustainable management plans will be critical, as will community involvement to ensure that benefits are equitably shared. The Foreign Ministry’s statement hints at a broader national strategy to integrate conservation with economic growth, a model that could inspire other countries in the region.

A Regional and Global Context

Indonesia is not alone in celebrating new geopark designations this year. Other countries, including Norway with its Fjord Coast, Vietnam with Lang Son, and South Korea with Danyang and Gyeongbuk Donghaean, have also received UNESCO recognition. This global acknowledgment highlights the universal importance of preserving geological heritage, a cause that transcends national borders.

For Indonesia, the addition of Kebumen and Meratus to the UNESCO list reinforces its position as a leader in Southeast Asia’s environmental and cultural conservation efforts. It also aligns with broader regional initiatives to promote sustainable tourism, as seen in neighboring countries like Vietnam and Malaysia, where similar designations have spurred eco-friendly development.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

While the UNESCO status opens doors to economic opportunities through tourism, it also poses challenges in maintaining the delicate balance between development and conservation. Overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient funding for preservation efforts could undermine the very heritage these geoparks aim to protect. Local governments will need to invest in training programs for guides, improved facilities, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate such risks.

Moreover, the involvement of indigenous communities like the Banjar and Dayak in Meratus must be prioritized. Their knowledge of the land and cultural practices can enrich visitor experiences while ensuring that development respects traditional ways of life. If managed well, these geoparks could serve as models of how tourism can coexist with conservation and cultural preservation.

Looking Forward

As Indonesia celebrates the recognition of Kebumen and Meratus, the focus now shifts to how these regions will adapt to their newfound status. Will they become exemplars of sustainable tourism, or will they struggle under the weight of increased attention? The answers lie in the hands of policymakers, communities, and visitors alike, each playing a role in safeguarding these irreplaceable pieces of Earth’s history for future generations.