KBRN, Bondowoso: Megalithic relics hold tremendous potential as a tourism attraction with continuous development opportunities in Bondowoso, East Java. Across the area known as Bumi Ki Ronggo, thousands of ancient relics have been discovered and are meticulously preserved.

These include menhirs, ancient standing stones frequently used for religious ceremonies or ancestor veneration; dolmens, stone structures believed to have served as gathering places or ceremonial sites; and stone tombs, which offer insights into the culture and beliefs of the ancient people.

Thanks to their uniqueness and significant historical value, these megalithic relics attract not only researchers and archaeologists but also tourists eager to explore Indonesia's past history and culture. This type of history-based tourism development can certainly have a positive impact on the local economy and enrich the cultural understanding of every visitor.

Recognizing this potential, Bondowoso Deputy Regent As'ad Yahya Syafi'i said that tourism in Bondowoso is expected to elevate its status, becoming a destination not only for local tourists but also for international visitors. This, in turn, is anticipated to increase the region's original revenue (PAD).

“The end result will be the welfare of the community,” he said as quoted by rri.co.id.

Therefore, tourism development will inevitably undergo evaluation to ensure Bondowoso tourism can be upgraded efficiently in a short timeframe. This necessitates the cooperation of all stakeholders, as well as consistent and intensified promotional efforts.

“Facilities and services to tourists must also continue to be added,” he added.

Meanwhile, Mulyadi, Head of the Bondowoso Youth Culture and Sports Tourism Agency, said that there are 60 site supervisors deployed across nearly all subdistricts. Their employment status varies, including both State Civil Apparatus (ASN) and Non-State Civil Apparatus working for the Bondowoso Regency Administration and the East Java Provincial Government.

“They are in direct contact with the community,” he said.

The average megalithic site in Bumi Ki Ronggo is situated on privately owned land. Therefore, Jupel's (caretaker) role in communication is considered crucial to ensure the preservation of all existing sites. Approximately 1,468 megalithic objects remain well-preserved.

“The site must not change place, then it must not change shape,” he concluded.

It has been confirmed that individuals deliberately seek out and sell ancient relics. Mulyadi explained that this phenomenon had previously been a significant concern in Bondowoso.

“After we conducted education regarding the protection of cultural heritage objects, the practice has begun to decrease,” said Mulyadi. ***