Sukabumi, July 1, 2025 - The Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu UNESCO Global Geopark (CPUGGp) revalidation program continues to radiate optimism. After exploring Puncak Darma, UNESCO assessors—Bojan Rezun from Slovenia and Zhang Chenggong from China—continued their visit to Curug Sodong, one of the leading geosites in Ciemas District, Sukabumi Regency.
Known for its twin waterfalls cascading down 20-meter-high breccia rock cliffs, Curug Sodong is not only visually stunning but also holds significant geological significance. The exposed rock at this location reflects the ancient tectonic processes that shaped the Ciletuh region.
"We were truly captivated by Curug Sodong. It's not just a natural beauty, but also a reflection of the Earth's living history," said Zhang Chenggong. Meanwhile, Bojan Rezun described this location as an inspiring example of the harmony between conservation and ecotourism.
Making the visit even more meaningful, the assessors participated in releasing freshwater fish into the Curug Sodong waters, a symbol of ecological balance and environmental conservation efforts, guided by the Head of the Sukabumi Regency Fisheries Office. This action demonstrated that the geopark not only preserves geological heritage but also the aquatic ecosystem and the sustainability of the surrounding community.
The Head of the Sukabumi Regency Tourism Office, Sendi Apriadi, S.STP., M.Si., emphasized that Curug Sodong is one of the strong facets of the CPUGGp, combining beauty, science, and educational tourism values.
"Curug Sodong is a symbol of integration. Its captivating landscape beauty, high geological value, and now it serves as a center for education and environmental conservation. This is the Sukabumi tourism model—embracing nature while fostering local communities," said Sendi.
He stated that the fish release activity is also part of a conservation-based tourism attraction development strategy involving cross-sectoral government agencies. "We're not just selling scenery, but offering meaningful, responsible, and empowering experiences," he added.
Optimism over the revalidation of the CPUGGp is interpreted not only as a matter of maintaining UNESCO status, but also as a way to re-ground our perspective on how to redefine the ecosystem for natural sustainability in a more sustainable way, while also actualizing community empowerment towards prosperity through tourism rooted in local values and mutual cooperation.
Author: Ilham M Saputra.
