KBRN, Jakarta: The Dieng Plateau, spanning Wonosobo and Banjarnegara Regencies in Central Java, has been officially designated as the Dieng National Geopark. The announcement was made by Central Java Vice Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen following the official decree from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM).

"This geopark designation, of course, highlights its tourism and natural potential. However, it must also serve as a hub for education and research. The goal is for us to preserve Dieng together," he said in Semarang on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The Vice Governor made the statement while receiving the copy of the certificate and attending the socialization of the ESDM Minister's decree on the designation. The Dieng Plateau was officially established as a National Geopark by the ESDM Ministry through Decree No. 172.K/GL.01/MEM.G/2025, issued on May 7, 2025.

With this new status, Yasin called for the area's potential to be continuously developed. He noted that the geopark status has the potential to attract researchers, both domestic and international, whose findings can be used for conservation studies.

He added that there are many potentials to develop, especially in tourism, given the area's temples, the unique dreadlock-cutting tradition, and its rich natural landscape. He expressed hope that harnessing these potentials would enhance the welfare of the local community.

He also called on the administration of Wonosobo and Banjarnegara Regencies to collaborate in developing the area's potential.

"This must, of course, be done in accordance with applicable regulations. This way, regional revenue can be channeled back into local development," he said.

Meanwhile, Muhammad Wafid, Head of the Geological Agency of the ESDM Ministry, said that the geopark designation is a crucial step toward better, more professional, and sustainable management. He emphasized that the Dieng National Geopark should be used as a reference for the regional development planning of both Banjarnegara and Wonosobo Regencies, with its management adhering to existing laws and regulations.

Looking ahead, he expressed hope that the Dieng Plateau will also be recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG), which requires good management of the area.

He explained that Dieng National Geopark boasts a wealth of natural treasures, consisting of 40 sites. These include 23 geological heritage sites (geosites), such as Telaga Warna, Sikidang Crater, Sileri Crater, Telaga Dringo, and Sumur Jalatunda. It also features 8 biodiversity sites (biosites), including Mount Prau and Arboretum Kalianget, as well as local fauna like the Wonosobo and Batur sheep.

Additionally, the geopark contains 9 cultural sites, both tangible, such as the Arjuna Temple Complex and Kebrengan Village, and intangible, which includes the dreadlock cutting tradition and the Lengger Mask Dance.

The official designation was based on the verification results from the National Geopark Team, which confirmed that the Dieng region met all administrative and technical requirements to hold the status of a National Geopark. This decision will serve as the foundation for regional planning and land use at both national and local levels, as well as strengthen Dieng's position to be submitted for recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

The official announcement of the Dieng National Geopark status was met with enthusiasm by the local community and stakeholders. The administration of Wonosobo and Banjarnegara expressed their gratitude for the achievement, while various parties, including academics, geopark activists, and tourism players, also showed their appreciation for this success. ***