ASIATODAY.ID, PARIS – Indonesia celebrates another milestone in global environmental recognition as the UNESCO Executive Board officially designated Kebumen Geopark in Central Java and Meratus Geopark in South Kalimantan as UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGs) during its 221st session held in Paris, France, from April 2 to 17, 2025.
According to a press release from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jakarta, all 58 member states of the UNESCO Executive Board, including Indonesia, reached a consensus to approve 16 new geopark nominations proposed by the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council during its meetings in September and December 2024.
The 16 newly designated geoparks span 11 countries, including:
- China (Kanbula and Yunyang Geoparks)
- Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (Mt. Paektu)
- Ecuador (Napo Sumaco and Tungurahua)
- Indonesia (Kebumen and Meratus)
- Italy (Mur)
- Norway (Fjord Coast)
- Republic of Korea (Danyang and Gyeongbuk)
- Saudi Arabia (Salma and North Riyadh)
- Spain (Costa Quebrada)
- United Kingdom (Arran)
- Vietnam (Lang Son)
With the inclusion of Kebumen and Meratus, Indonesia now boasts a total of 12 UNESCO Global Geoparks, joining the ranks of: Batur Geopark, Belitong Geopark, Ciletuh Geopark, Gunung Sewu Geopark, Ijen Geopark, Maros Pangkep Geopark, Merangin Jambi Geopark, Raja Ampat Geopark, Rinjani Lombok Geopark, Toba Caldera Geopark.
“These recognitions reflect not only Indonesia’s rich geological and cultural heritage, but also its growing global role in sustainable environmental management,” said MOFA Indonesia.
Holding the UNESCO Global Geopark status carries a profound responsibility: to preserve natural landscapes, promote environmental education, empower local communities, and manage geological heritage sustainably. This achievement underscores Indonesia’s commitment to conservation, global education, and community-based eco-tourism, while also reinforcing its contribution to protecting the Earth’s invaluable geological legacy. (AT Network)
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