T

he Bali provincial administration is to propose to Unesco that Mount Batur in the Kintamani resort area be recognized as a Geopark.

"We will send the proposal to Unesco for their approval," I Made Sudjana, head of the Bali Tourism Institute, said.

As defined by Unesco, a Geopark is a territory encompassing one or more sites of scientific importance, not only for geological reasons but also by virtue of its archaeological, ecological or cultural value.

Mt. Batur in Bangli regency, located some 70 kilometers northwest of Denpasar, fits the term.

The active volcano, which is surrounded by a huge crater, attracts thousands of visitors every day who are drawn to the mountain's beauty.

The Bali administration, in cooperation with the Culture and Tourism Ministry and the Bali Tourism Institute are currently finalizing the proposal.

The Bali Aga, an indigenous population now occupying a small area in Trunyan village on the slope of the mountain, were the first group to settle in the Mt. Batur area.

The community still adheres to its centuries-old tradition of mixing animist beliefs with Hinduism.

"We are conducting a comprehensive feasibility study on the possibility of designating the Batur area a Unesco Geopark," Sudjana said.

Langkawi in Malaysia is the only Geopark in Southeast Asia.

Indonesia had previously proposed Mt. Rinjani in Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara province, be developed as the country's first Geopark.

Acquiring status as a Unesco Geopark would boost Mt.Batur's profile both as a tourist destination and as a geological research center.

Unesco launched its Geoparks program in response to the perceived need for an international initiative to recognizes sites representing an interest for earth sciences.

The Global Geoparks Network program is aimed at enhancing the value of such sites while at the same time creating employment and promoting regional economic development.

Unesco insists that a geopark is a geographical area where geological heritage sites are part of a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development.

The Geopark initiative is a bottom-up process involving local authorities, experts and the community.

"This will be a long-term project and we suggest the central and provincial governments prepare comprehensive development plans," Sujana said.

-JP/Wasti Atmodjo