Sukabumi, July 4, 2025 - As part of the revalidation of the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu UNESCO Global Geopark (CPUGGp), UNESCO assessors, Bojan Rezun from Slovenia and Zhang Chenggong from China, visited one of the region's unique and visionary public facilities: the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu Geopark Information Center. Strategically located in the heart of the tourist city, this library serves as an open space for the public and tourists to broaden their knowledge about the geopark, the environment, local culture, and the tourism potential of Sukabumi Regency. The assessors were welcomed by library administrators, students, literacy communities, and representatives from the Sukabumi Regency Archives and Library Office.
Inside this modern yet welcoming building, the assessors viewed a collection of tourism literature, historical documentation of the CPUGGp, and various works by students and local residents documenting the natural and cultural heritage of Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu. They also participated in discussions and interactive reading corners hosted by school students and creative communities.
"We were very impressed. This isn't just a library; it's a vibrant community knowledge center. Its function goes beyond a reading space, becoming the heart of public education about geopark values," said Zhang Chenggong.
Bojan Rezun added, "Literacy is the foundation of awareness. When geoparks are introduced through books, discussions, and communities, the meaning of conservation becomes part of a way of life."
The Head of the Sukabumi Regency Tourism Office, Sendi Apriadi, S.STP., M.Si., who accompanied the visit, stated that the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu Geopark Information Center is part of a strategy to build a tourism ecosystem based on community education and literacy.
"The Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu Geopark Information Center is a new hub for educational tourism. We want tourists to not only enjoy the landscape, but also understand the stories and values behind it. This is where the narratives are curated and passed down," said Sendi. According to him, strengthening literacy is a form of strengthening human resources within the geopark. Through tourist libraries, knowledge about the earth, culture, and conservation is disseminated in an inclusive manner.
Optimism regarding the UNESCO revalidation process is not only interpreted as an effort to maintain global recognition, but also as an opportunity to further ground the spirit of nature and cultural preservation. Through educational spaces such as the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu Geopark Information Center, the public is invited to actively participate in understanding, caring for, and retelling the richness of the earth's heritage, while simultaneously strengthening collective steps towards a more conscious, empowered, and prosperous life.
Author: Ilham M Saputra.