The Natuna Geopark is more than just a collection of ancient rock formations and breathtaking landscapes on the northern frontier of Indonesia. Beneath the quietness of its geosites and the softness of its sandy beaches. The Natuna Regency Government holds a profound commitment: to preserve this natural heritage. And to fight for its global recognition as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) network.
This pursuit is not merely an ambition, but a responsibility born of history and culture. Tukino, the Secretary I of the Natuna National Geopark Management Agency (BPGN). Shared how the local government has consistently held community empowerment training programs from 2021 to 2024. These trainings cover tour guiding, homestay management, and strategies for community-based tourism development.
“We regularly hold these training sessions so the people can take ownership of and protect the Natuna Geopark. Without their involvement, the geopark would be nothing more than a name,” Tukino said on Monday morning in Natuna.
Building Supportive Facilities
In addition to human capacity development. The Natuna Regency Government is also strengthening its infrastructure by building supporting facilities at several key geosites. The Special Allocation Fund (DAK) will be the primary source of funding in 2023 and 2024. This includes the construction of access routes, information boards, and rest areas for visitors.
According to Tukino, every policy and action taken is part of the preparation for a periodic evaluation. Which will be conducted by the Indonesian National Geopark Committee (KNGI) and is scheduled for the end of July 2025.
This evaluation occurs once every four years and will determine whether Natuna still deserves its National Geopark status.
“We’ve prepared everything. From the administrative side, our reports are complete. On the ground, we’ve ensured that facilities at several geosites meet the required standards,” he said confidently.
Aiming for UNESCO Global Geopark Status
Yet, the Natuna Regency Government doesn’t want to stop at national recognition. Tukino emphasized that they are already preparing for the next major step: drafting an official dossier to submit to UNESCO. This move marks the gateway to the international stage—towards becoming a UNESCO Global Geopark.
“UNESCO doesn’t just assess natural beauty. They also evaluate how well a region preserves, manages, and involves its local communities in conservation,” Tukino added.
The Natuna Geopark is not merely a stretch of nature. It is a reflection of local wisdom and the collective spirit of a community committed. To nurturing the land they call home. If one day the world embraces Natuna as part of the global geopark family, it will be a shared victory. Not only for Natuna, but for all of Indonesia.
