September 27, 2025 | 05:05 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - UNESCO designated Raja Ampat in Indonesia as a Biosphere Reserve, a globally recognized area with unique ecosystems and innovative approaches to sustainable living. Among the 30 new biosphere reserves designated by UNESCO, Raja Ampat is considered the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on Earth.
This milestone follows Raja Ampat's earlier recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023. This makes Raja Ampat one of the few sites in the world with dual UNESCO designations.
The Raja Ampat Biosphere Reserve, spanning approximately 135,000 km2 across roughly 610 islands, atolls, and takas (of which only 34 are inhabited), lies at the heart of the Coral Triangle. The reserve boasts the world's richest coral reefs, home to over 75 percent of the planet's coral species, more than 1,320 species of coral reef fish, and five species of rare or endangered sea turtles, including the hawksbill turtle. Approximately 60 percent of its reefs are in good to excellent condition.
As both a Global Geopark and a Biosphere Reserve, Raja Ampat is recognized for its exceptional geological heritage and rich biological diversity. It is a place where conservation, science, local knowledge, and sustainable development converge for the benefit of local communities and the planet. In the face of the world's growing climate and biodiversity crises, UNESCO Biosphere Reserves offer a powerful yet underreported solution that is urgently needed.
These "living laboratories" allow local communities, scientists, and governments to collaborate in three main ways: conservation, development, and understanding. Conservation involves protecting biodiversity, landscapes, and ecosystems. Development involves promoting sustainable economic and human development. Understanding involves supporting research, education, training, and knowledge exchange.
More than 700 Biosphere Reserves span over 130 countries and cover more than 5 percent of the Earth’s land surface. These areas serve as models for balancing conservation and sustainable use for the 275 million people who live in them.
Raja Ampat is a global beacon for ocean conservation. By combining marine and terrestrial protection with sustainable livelihoods, it supports biodiversity, cultural heritage, and climate resilience in one of the planet’s most vital seascapes.
Editor's Choice: 6 UNESCO Endangered World Heritage Sites: One in Indonesia
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
UNESCO, Temasek Team Up to Boost Performing Arts in Southeast Asia
2 jam lalu
UNESCO and Temasek Foundation have launched a regional initiative to strengthen cross-cultural understanding in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore through the arts.
6 UNESCO Endangered World Heritage Sites: One in Indonesia
18 jam lalu
Due to various critical threats, UNESCO has designated several endangered heritage sites worldwide, including one in Indonesia. Discover the list here
Auriga Presses Indonesian Govt to Stop PT Gag Nikel's Mining in Raja Ampat
1 hari lalu
Auriga Nusantara discovered damage to coral reef ecosystems and coastal areas caused by PT Gag Nikel's mining activities in Raja Ampat.
Indonesia Hosts UNESCO's Regional Peace Education Meeting
3 hari lalu
This UNESCO event marks a historic step for the region and charts a new course for preventing conflict and achieving lasting peace.
25 Indonesian Junior High Teachers Join UNESCO's AI Training Program
6 hari lalu
Teachers play a strategic role in helping students use technology wisely.
6 Stunning Indonesian Destinations to Explore Beyond Bali
7 hari lalu
Bali's reputation as tropical paradise is well-known, but Travel + Leisure's Desiree Norman encourages exploring other destinations across Indonesia.
The Specter of the Destruction of Komodo
10 hari lalu
The environment of Padar Island in Komodo National Park is threatened with destruction because of the development of super premium tourist facilities.
Why Is Indonesia Letting PT Gag Nikel Resume Mining in Raja Ampat?
12 hari lalu
The Energy Ministry granted PT Gag Nikel a permit to operate on Gag Island, Raja Ampat, after suspending activities over public opposition.
Bali Cultural Guidebook Invites Tourists to Explore Cultural Heritage
16 hari lalu
An article about Airbnb collaborating with UNESCO to launch a cultural guidebook for Bali in order to promote tourism in lesser-known areas.
Greenpeace Calls Raja Ampat Nickel Mining Permit a Government 'Betrayal'
16 hari lalu
The government's decision to allow PT Gag Nikel to resume mining on Gag Island, Raja Ampat, has drawn sharp criticism from environmental groups.
