RRI.CO.ID, Belitung - Indonesia's Tourism Minister, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, encourages geopark managers and all stakeholders to optimally prepare various aspects ahead of the Belitong UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) revalidation process, which will take place from August 3-7, 2026. She said in Belitung on Sunday, July 5, 2026, that Belitung has held UNESCO Global Geopark status since its inception at the 211th UNESCO Executive Board Session in Paris, France, in April 2021.

As Minister of Tourism, the Minister is committed to continuing to provide assistance until all stages of the revalidation are complete. This support includes installing priority geosite signs, holding international seminars, and creating bilingual information boards at several geosites.

The use of information board materials that are resistant to weather changes, both rain and heat, is also a priority to ensure facilities are not easily damaged and can provide continuous information to tourists. "Therefore, I hope today's meeting can provide a clear picture of the progress of the follow-up to all UNESCO recommendations, while also identifying areas that still require support and acceleration from the central and regional governments," she said.

The Ministry of Tourism noted several aspects that need to be continuously strengthened, including geopark management institutions, budget support, completion of necessary regulations, the readiness of communities surrounding geosites, and strengthening interpretation and storytelling at each geosite. Promotion of geoparks as part of a tourist attraction also needs to be developed in a more targeted manner.

Therefore, all UNESCO recommendations and suggestions regarding the Belitong UNESCO Global Geopark must be taken seriously. The Minister emphasized that follow-up should not stop at administrative documents but must be realized through concrete steps and real changes on the ground.

The Minister affirmed the importance of strengthening synergy between the central government, regional governments, geopark management bodies, and communities surrounding the geosite so that the Belitong UNESCO Global Geopark can once again achieve its Green Card. She said the existence of a geopark is not solely related to international recognition, but also part of efforts to preserve the earth's heritage, strengthen education, and provide sustainable economic and social benefits to the community.