Raja Ampat Focuses on Maintaining UNESCO Global Geopark Status for 2026

Raja Ampat in Southwest Papua continues to strengthen its position as one of the world's premier nature tourism destinations. Ahead of the UNESCO Global Geopark revalidation process in August 2026, the government and local communities are actively preserving the area while enhancing Sustainable Tourism governance.

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana personally inspected several key tourism sites in Raja Ampat, including the iconic Piaynemo Geosite known for its karst island clusters and turquoise seascape.

"The global geopark status must be maintained through robust governance, tangible conservation, and local community involvement," stated Widiyanti in a Jakarta press release.

According to Widiyanti, UNESCO Global Geopark status is not merely an international recognition symbol, but also a significant responsibility to preserve Raja Ampat's Natural Sustainability long-term. 

Therefore, the upcoming revalidation will serve as a crucial moment to demonstrate Indonesia's commitment to Sustainable Tourism.

Beyond Piaynemo, Widiyanti also visited Arborek Tourism Village, recipient of the 2021 Indonesian Tourism Village Award. 

This small village amid Raja Ampat's blue waters successfully developed ecotourism while maintaining local culture and environmental sustainability.

"Arborek Village is tangible proof that ecotourism isn't just a paper concept. Here we witness how communities achieve economic empowerment without neglecting ancestral heritage and Marine Conservation. Arborek's success should inspire other Indonesian tourism villages," she explained.

The visit continued to Kri Island in Meos Mansar District, where Widiyanti reviewed the shark conservation program at Sorido Bay Resort – part of efforts to sustain Raja Ampat's marine ecosystem.

During this visit, Widiyanti named a zebra shark egg "Putri" (Princess) while it incubated before hatching. This small symbol serves as a reminder that Raja Ampat's beauty encompasses not only scenic vistas but also safeguarding marine life for future generations.

Raja Ampat is scheduled for UNESCO reassessment in August 2026. The government hopes the region will retain its global geopark status while becoming a model destination that balances tourism, Nature Conservation, and community welfare.

"Our collective duty for Raja Ampat is ensuring this beauty remains alive, sustainable, and beneficial for both current and future generations," she concluded.