Buleleng's Signature Gemstones Secure Geographical Indication Certificate
Pulaki stones, a signature gemstone from the Gerokgak District, Buleleng, Bali, have officially obtained a Geographical Indication (GI) certificate. The certificate provides legal protection for the authenticity, quality, and unique characteristics of Pulaki stones as one of Bali’s premier natural stones.
The GI certificate was issued following a series of stages, including a substantive examination by the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) of the Ministry of Law on 19 May 2026. During this process, the DJKI conducted field verifications in Buleleng, visiting the Geographical Indication Protection Community Secretariat (MPIG), artisan centres, and the Melanting Temple area to ensure that the production processes, quality standards, and marketing systems of Pulaki stones align with the submitted documentation.
The Head of the Buleleng Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA), Ketut Suwarmawan, stated that the successful acquisition of the GI certificate is the result of collaboration between the local government, academics, and the community. “BRIDA acted as a facilitator, overseeing all stages of the application, from coordinating with the Directorate General of Intellectual Property and assisting the MPIG to preparing required documents and working with expert teams from IAHN Mpu Kuturan Singaraja to strengthen the scientific study,” Suwarmawan said on Sunday (2/8/2026).
According to Suwarmawan, the GI certificate serves as evidence that cross-sector synergy can provide legal protection for regional potential that possesses economic, cultural, and historical value. “Moving forward, we hope this Geographical Indication status will be able to increase the competitiveness of Pulaki stones in both national and international markets, while providing added value for artisans and the local community,” he expressed.
Meanwhile, a scientific study compiled by the expert team from IAHN Mpu Kuturan Singaraja noted that Pulaki stones possess characteristics not found in other gemstones. In addition to their unique patterns, Pulaki stones are closely linked to the traditions and customary ceremonies of the Balinese people. The research team assessed that Pulaki stones hold not only economic value as gemstones but also preserve cultural and spiritual values passed down through generations.
The study also highlighted that protection through the Geographical Indication scheme is vital because the high demand for Pulaki stones could trigger uncontrolled exploitation. Without sustainable management, mining activities are feared to threaten environmental sustainability and reduce the authenticity of the stones that define the Pulaki identity.