RRI.CO.ID, Banyuwangi - Indonesia's Ijen Geopark has begun its first revalidation as a UNESCO Global Geopark. The evaluation started in Banyuwangi, East Java, on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

Two UNESCO Global Geopark assessors, Dr. Andreas Schüller of Germany and Qinling Zhongnanshan of China, are conducting the review. They will assess whether Ijen continues meeting UNESCO's international standards.

The five-day evaluation runs from August 2 to August 6 across Banyuwangi and Bondowoso regencies. It is the first revalidation since Ijen joined the UNESCO Global Geopark network in 2023.

The assessors first visited the Ijen Geological and Geopark Information Center (PIGGI) in Banyuwangi. They reviewed geological collections, fossils, rocks, and cultural heritage from the geopark area.

Chairperson of the Ijen Geopark Management Agency, Abdillah Baraas, said the visit evaluates educational and interpretation aspects. The assessors will also inspect several geosites throughout the geopark.

“The visit to the Geological Information Center is part of evaluating education and interpretation during the revalidation process,” he said.

The assessment also includes Alas Purwo National Park, Blue Bay, Pangpang Bay, Kemiren Village, and Wringin Putih Tourism Village. UNESCO also reviews conservation, education, community empowerment, and sustainable tourism management.

“The assessors will also visit Kemiren Village and Wringin Putih Tourism Village to observe community empowerment practices,” Abdillah added.

Meanwhile, Banyuwangi Regent, Ipuk Fiestiandani, said Ijen Geopark is now part of the world's shared heritage. She said Indonesia remains committed to protecting the site through sustainable management and community participation.

“Ijen Geopark no longer belongs only to Banyuwangi, but to the world. Through this revalidation, we want to demonstrate our commitment to protecting this world heritage,” she said.