Matano Geopark to Soon Receive National Geological Heritage Status
The Regent of East Luwu, Irwan Bachri Syam, stated that the Matano Geopark, located in South Sulawesi, is poised to soon achieve status as a National Geological Heritage site. Currently, the local government is awaiting the issuance of an official Decree (SK) from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM).
“Matano Geopark is awaiting the Decree to be recognised as a geological area on a national level. We are simply waiting for the issuance of the designation Decree as a National Geological Heritage from the Ministry of ESDM,” Irwan said when confirmed from Makassar on Monday (22/6).
Irwan explained that all essential stages towards achieving National Geopark status have been completed. The designation of geoheritage status is an absolute requirement and a crucial initial step in proposing an area to become a geopark at the national level.
The East Luwu Regency Government continues to take various acceleration measures to ensure this status is realised promptly. One of the efforts being undertaken is intensive coordination and conducting direct audiences with the Geological Agency of the Ministry of ESDM.
The Regent, along with the Matano Geopark proposal acceleration team, is committed to overseeing the administrative and technical processes to ensure the designation can be finalised in the near future. Support from the Geological Agency is seen as a positive signal for East Luwu to position Matano Geopark as one of Indonesia’s premier regions.
Matano Geopark is known for its unique and high-value geological wealth. The area contains various geological sites that serve as a record of the Earth’s history, possessing immense scientific, educational, and conservation value.
In addition to preservation aspects, the development of Matano Geopark is expected to provide an economic impact for the local community. “Matano Geopark is expected to be able to drive economic growth for the community through the development of the tourism sector based on nature, culture, and education,” Irwan added.
The local government also invites all elements of society, academics, communities, and the private sector to collaborate. This cross-sector cooperation is considered vital to maintaining the area’s sustainability so that its geological value remains preserved for future generations.