August 2, 2025 | 10:33 am
TEMPO.CO, Bandung - Indonesia's Ranah Minang Silokek Geopark is being proposed as an Aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark 2025. The local government of Sijunjung Regency, West Sumatra, has invited the Faculty of Geological Engineering at Padjadjaran University (Unpad) to collaborate on academic support and research to meet international assessment standards.
The Dean of the Faculty of Geological Engineering at Unpad, Mega Fatimah Rosana, stated that they are ready to actively participate in developing the geopark. She said, "This includes scientific research activities, mapping and identification of geosites, the development of educational content about the region's geology, as well as training for local human resources to enhance the capacity and competitiveness of the geopark," according to a statement on Unpad's website on Monday, July 28, 2025.
Unique Features of Ranah Minang Silokek Geopark
The Ranah Minang Silokek Geopark is an area rich in geology, boasting outstanding features such as karst landscapes over 350 million years old, ancient rock formations, and high-value geological heritage potential, both scientifically and from a tourism perspective. The Indonesian government had previously designated the location as a national geopark in 2018.
In Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Decree No. 28 of 2024, there are fourteen geological heritage sites, or geosites, within the scope of Ranah Minang Silokek Geopark. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources Geological Survey Center website states that, based on assessments, there are two sites with the best geotourism potential, the Bukik Mambuik Intrusion Complex Geosite and the Silokek Karst Complex Geosite. The total value of their tourism potential falls into the classification of excellent.
In terms of supporting facilities and infrastructure, both sites also received positive assessments for accessibility, safety facilities, and logistical availability. The views and conditions of the geological heritage are well preserved. Additionally, both geosites are conveniently located near other recreational areas.
The Silokek Karst Complex Geosite has the potential to become an icon of this geopark. Several of its significant values lie in its scientific aspect, holding records of geological events such as the uplift of the Kuantan Formation limestone dating back to the Carbon-Permian period, as well as the karstification process that formed the karst landscapes.
In terms of aesthetics, the beauty of the karst hills and caves adorned with captivating natural formations makes Silokek an enchanting tourist attraction. The cave formations and stalactites adorning the cave ceilings create extraordinary and highly aesthetic views. As for recreation, Silokek is the perfect place for geotourism and nature exploration. Visitors can engage in activities such as cave exploration and trekking in the karst hills.
Editor's Choice: Experience Bali's Charm Abroad
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Foreign Tourists Expose the Dark Side of Bali Tourism
1 hari lalu
As the number of tourists continues to soar, Bali faces challenges such as excessive waste and chaotic traffic.
TripAdvisor Names Sagrada Familia the World's Top Tourist Attraction
2 hari lalu
The Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona, Spain, was voted the best tourist destination according to the 2025 Travelers' Choice Awards.
Preah Vihear Temple: Flashpoint in the Thailand-Cambodia Border Dispute
4 hari lalu
The Preah Vihear Temple area has long been a site of tension between Thailand and Cambodia.
Bali Prohibits Building Tourism Facilities on Productive Land
4 hari lalu
Bali Governor Wayan Koster asked business owners to lower the height of their buildings if they exceed the regulations.
9 Travel Scams to Watch Out for Abroad
5 hari lalu
There are many fraudulent acts targeting tourists at overseas destinations. These acts range from taxi fare scams to souvenir purchases.
Today's Top 3 News: "Sandwich Tourists" Sends Waves of Panic to Mallorca Restaurants as Visitors Dipped
5 hari lalu
Here is the list of the top 3 news on Tempo English today.
Abandoned Venice Island to Become 'Oasis' for Locals; Tourists Not Allowed
6 hari lalu
Poveglia, an uninhabited island in Venice, Italy, will be transformed into a public lagoon park for the locals.
10 Most Beautiful Places in Italy, Most Scenic Spots
7 hari lalu
From natural wonders to artistic treasures and cultural gems, discover the most beautiful places in Italy where you can capture the country's heart.
Today's Top 3 News: 8 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Guangzhou, from Nature to History
7 hari lalu
Here is the list of the top 3 news on Tempo English today.
8 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Guangzhou, from Nature to History
8 hari lalu
Travelers can experience a unique blend of cultural heritage, urban development, and captivating natural scenery in Guangzhou.
