Geopark Meratus Management Expands Meratus Geopark to Offer Diverse Tourism Experiences

Banjarmasin (ANTARA) — The Meratus Geopark Management Agency (BPGM) in South Kalimantan (Kalsel) continues to strengthen Geopark Meratus’s identity as the representation of Kalimantan’s soul, in terms of its natural environment, culture and the life of its people.

The Deputy Secretary of BPGM, Theodorik Rizal Manik, in Banjarbaru on Thursday explained that the 2026 area development will carry the big theme ‘Soul of Borneo’ as the destination’s main identity.

‘The theme reflects the natural wealth, culture, and the life of the Kalimantan people, which are the main attractions of Geopark Meratus,’ he said.

The development, he continued, will be divided into four main travel routes, namely North, East, South and West. These four routes are designed to provide diverse and integrated tourism experiences.

There are as many as 54 geosites spread throughout the Geopark Meratus area. The geosites are managed by various parties, ranging from Tourism Awareness Groups (Pokdarwis), local communities, to environmental activists.

‘The 54 geosites are our main strength. Its management involves the community directly, so economic benefits can be felt more evenly,’ Theodorik said.

He added that community involvement in geosite management is one of the keys to the success of Meratus Geopark’s empowerment-based development.

In addition to developing routes and geosites, BPGM also coordinates various strategic cross-sector programs, such as Global Green Culture and the development of regional gastronomy.

‘We are working with the Department of Education and Culture as well as the Department of Tourism to present activities that elevate the value of local culture and cuisine,’ said Theodorik Rizal.

Through this integrated approach, he added, Geopark Meratus is hoped to become a leading destination that not only attracts visitors, but also has global competitiveness.