The Meratus Mountains are unique not only for their high geological value but also beautiful landscapes that can be enjoyed by both local and international communitiesBanjarmasin, S Kalimantan (ANTARA) - Meratus Mountains that have been designated as a national geopark are a unique and monumental result of geological processes that should be promoted as valuable geological assets to the international community.
"The Meratus Mountains are unique not only for their high geological value but also beautiful landscapes that can be enjoyed by both local and international communities," Head of the Geological Survey Center, Geological Agency of the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, Hendra Gunawan stated in Banjar District, South Kalimantan, Friday.
Gunawan and the Geological Agency team conducted a survey at several geological sites of the Meratus Geopark to be designated as a geological heritage.
Based on the Energy and Mineral Resources Minister's Decree No. 1 of 2020 on guidelines for determining geological heritage, all national geoparks must also qualify as a geological heritage.
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Likewise, the Meratus Mountains, which are estimated to be 200 million years old and have been designated as a national geopark in 2018, should also be designated as a geological heritage.
Currently, the Meratus Geopark is in the process of being proposed as a UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG). The 200-million-year-old Meratus Mountains have a complex geological history.
It has 74 potential geosites spread across nine districts and cities in South Kalimantan.
Several steps have been taken to achieve the UGG status for the areas, including improving geosite facilities and increasing access and outreach to schools and tourism awareness groups.
Hendra expressed optimism that the Meratus Geopark would achieve its status as a UGG with its geological values, natural wealth, culture, and biodiversity.
"It is just how we manage it optimally, so that we can get optimum results," he stated.
According to Hendra, development of the Meratus Geopark should refer to its original aim of natural conservation with sustainable economic and educational value.
"All these elements can be mixed. It is important for us to manage these elements for sustainable development without damaging nature. People should be aware of the importance of protecting nature," he affirmed.
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The link between geological elements and culture should also be highlighted to involve the community because one of the main elements in a geopark management is community involvement, he emphasized.
Narratives related to geological processes at each Meratus Geopark site need to be presented to provide awareness to the public, especially geosite visitors.
"This narrative does not have to be extravagant, but it shall be informative. It is also necessary to have interesting narratives related to legends and local wisdom of the local community," Hendra stated.
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Reporter: Sri Haryati
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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