Meratus Geopark South Kalimantan Strengthens Position as Global Geotourism and Research Destination

A Gemology Team from Australia and France conducted research in the Meratus Geopark to assess the diamond potential and geological heritage of South Kalimantan. The gemology team's visit is also expected to strengthen the promotion of world-class Geotourism.

Their journey focused on several key points within the Sultan Adam Forest Park (Tahura) area, a Conservation zone preserving geological records millions of years old. 

A primary focus was serpentinite rock, a uniquely textured rock known as "snakeskin stone" and believed to be closely linked to the diamond formation process in South Kalimantan.

The Head of the Sultan Adam Forest Park Technical Implementation Unit (UPT Tahura), Ainun Jariah, explained that this rock holds significant scientific value for global geological studies.

"The snakeskin serpentinite rock has high scientific value because it provides evidence of Kalimantan's formation from an ancient ocean floor, carrying various economically valuable minerals like diamonds and amethyst," she stated.

The visit began in the Mandiangin area, where researchers received presentations on the geological wealth, biodiversity, and conservation management systems of Sultan Adam Forest Park. 

At the Geo Theater, they watched a visual presentation about the Meratus landscape, a mountain range rich not only in minerals but also home to Borneo's endemic flora and fauna.

During the trip, the group inspected the orchid conservation area and wildlife habituation sites. This area demonstrated how Nature Conservation efforts run parallel to the development of conservation-based Educational Tourism. 

For these foreign researchers, the experience provided a comprehensive picture of the relationship between geological wealth and the sustainability of Kalimantan's tropical ecosystem.

The expedition then continued to the Snakeskin Serpentinite Stone site, one of the most important geosites in the Meratus Mountains. 

The rock's reptilian scale-like texture is an object of academic study attracting the attention of the international geology community. 

The journey concluded with a visit to the Dutch Pesanggrahan area, a historical heritage site amidst the green mountain landscape.

According to the Deputy Chair of the Meratus Geopark Management Agency (BP Geopark Meratus), Ali Mustafa, the research not only focused on geological aspects but also delved into the characteristics of diamonds from traditional mining in South Kalimantan. 

The gemology team also studied the community mining systems in the Pumpung, Gabin, and Karang Intan areas, which have been passed down through generations.

"This visit is part of international promotion to highlight the uniqueness of Kalimantan diamonds as one of the world's best geological heritages, while simultaneously strengthening Meratus Geopark's position as a world-class geotourism destination and geological research center," Mustafa explained.

Amidst growing global interest in nature and science-based Tourism, Meratus Geopark is gradually affirming its identity as a meeting point between Earth's history, local culture, and scientific adventure. 

From ancient rocks to the sparkle of traditional diamonds, this region offers a long Story of how Kalimantan's nature has shaped a heritage capturing the world's attention.