Matano Geopark to Soon Receive National Geological Heritage Status

Bupati of Luwu Timur, Irwan Bachri Syam, stated that the Matano Geopark in South Sulawesi will soon receive National Geological Heritage status. The local government is currently awaiting the issuance of an official decree from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. “Geopark Matano is waiting for the decree as a nationally recognised geological area. So we are just waiting for the issuance of the decree designating it as a National Geological Heritage from the Ministry of ESDM,” Irwan said when confirmed from Makassar on Monday (22/6). Irwan explained that all important stages towards national geopark status have been completed. The designation of geological heritage, or geoheritage, is an absolute requirement and a crucial first step in proposing an area as a national geopark. The Luwu Timur Regency Government continues to take various acceleration measures to ensure this status is realised soon. One of the efforts undertaken is intensive coordination and direct audiences with the Geological Agency of the Ministry of ESDM. The Bupati, together with the team accelerating the Geopark Matano proposal, is committed to overseeing the administrative and technical processes so that the designation can be completed in the near future. Support from the Geological Agency is considered a positive signal for Luwu Timur to position Geopark Matano as one of Indonesia’s premier areas. Geopark Matano is known for its unique and high-value geological wealth. The area holds various geological sites that serve as records of the earth’s journey, thus possessing immense scientific, educational, and conservation value. Beyond conservation, the development of Geopark Matano is expected to have an economic impact on the local community. “Geopark Matano is expected to drive community economic growth through the development of nature-based, cultural, and educational tourism,” 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 important to preserve the area so that its geological value is maintained for future generations.