RRI.CO.ID, Raja Ampat - Indonesia's Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, reviewed the strengthening of governance at the world-class tourism destination and the readiness for the revalidation of Raja Ampat's UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG) status. Raja Ampat is scheduled to undergo a revalidation process by a UNESCO assessor team in August 2026.

This process is a comprehensive assessment to determine the sustainability of Raja Ampat's UNESCO Global Geopark status. While inspecting the Play Nemo Geosite on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, the Minister also affiremed that UNESCO Global Geopark status is not merely international recognition, but a long-term commitment to maintaining the region's sustainability.

She emphasized the importance of synergy between environmental protection, reinforce governance, and empowering local communities so that the benefits of tourism can be enjoyed sustainably. "Geopark status must be maintained through strong governance, effective conservation, and local community involvement," Minister of Tourism said.

During the visit, the Minister of Tourism also visited the Arborek Tourism Village, which received the 2021 Indonesian Tourism Village Award (ADWI). Arborek Village is considered an example of ecotourism development that integrates community economic growth with cultural and marine ecosystem preservation.

"Arborek Village is clear evidence that ecotourism is not just about empowering communities economically without neglecting ancestral heritage and marine sustainability. Arborek's success should be an inspiration for other tourist villages in Indonesia," Widiyanti said.

Concluding her visit to Kri Island, Meos Mansar District, Widiyanti reviewed the shark conservation program at Sorido Bay Resort. On the occasion, she named one of the zebra shark eggs, which is incubating and about to hatch, "Putri."

The naming symbolizes hope for the continued growth of sustainable marine life in Raja Ampat waters and reinforces the importance of marine ecosystem conservation for future generations. The Minister also encouraged all stakeholders to have a sense of responsibility and shared ownership in maintaining the sustainability of Raja Ampat as a leading global destination.