East Kalimantan Fast-Tracks Karst Region for UNESCO Geopark Bid

RRI.CO.ID, Samarinda - The East Kalimantan Provincial Administration is making a move to protect its ancient geological treasures by fast-tracking the Sangkulirang-Mangkalihat Karst region toward international prestige. Authorities are currently racing against a July 2026 deadline for national verification, a critical steppingstone in their ambition to designate the site as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

As reported by Antara, this strategic push represents a dual commitment to modern urban growth and the preservation of the Kalimantan wilderness, ensuring that the province’s prehistoric heritage evolves alongside its political future.

"We are currently accelerating the synchronization of master plan documents in accordance with Bappenas (National Development Planning Agency) directives, as well as strengthening field visibility to ensure national standards are perfectly met," said the Head of the East Kalimantan Tourism Agency, Ririn Sari Dewi, in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

According to Ririn, this effort serves as concrete evidence that regional development extends far beyond the infrastructure of the new capital, focusing heavily on the world-class geological charms hidden within the province's vast forests.

The technical preparation for the bid is immense, as the karst region boasts 26 geosites, seven biodiversity sites, and two cultural heritage sites ready for evaluation by national verifiers.

To enhance the site's profile, the local government has begun constructing identity gateways at various entry points and implementing massive branding campaigns at major airports in the Berau and Kutai Timur regencies.

Ririn highlighted that specific natural phenomena, such as the famous two-flavor water of Labuan Cermin and the unique karst cones in Merabu Village, are projected to be the primary attractions proving the region's universal value to the global community.

Beyond the physical and administrative preparation, the provincial administration is prioritizing institutional strength by involving a professional network of academics, practitioners, and bureaucrats.

Officials are currently conducting an in-depth study into the formation of a Regional Public Service Agency (BLUD) to ensure that the future management of the Sangkulirang-Mangkalihat Geopark remains agile and financially independent. This management model is designed to support the long-term sustainability of the site while maintaining rigorous conservation standards.

At the heart of the initiative lies a focus on social ecology, specifically through the empowerment of indigenous communities. Programs in the Merabu Cultural Village are being intensified to bridge the gap between environmental protection and local economic prosperity through sustainable tourism.

Ririn emphasized that the Sangkulirang-Mangkalihat Geopark will be officially nominated for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Global Geopark network if the national verification is successful. This milestone would place East Kalimantan’s natural wonders on the highest stage of international recognition. ***