Sukabumi, July 1, 2025 - As a crucial part of the revalidation process for the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu UNESCO Global Geopark (CPUGGp), a UNESCO assessor team consisting of Bojan Rezun (Slovenia) and Zhang Chenggong (China) continued their visit to the Geopark Research and Education Center at the Faculty of Geological Engineering, Padjadjaran University. Accompanied by Prof. Mega F. Rosana and other Unpad geology academics, the visit demonstrated the strong academic dimension of CPUGGp management. The assessors were welcomed with various presentations on earth science research, geological conservation, and strategic collaboration between Unpad, the Sukabumi Regency Government, and the global UNESCO Global Geopark network.
"This research center demonstrates that CPUGGp does not stand alone, but is fully supported by a deep scientific and educational approach. This is truly extraordinary," praised Bojan Rezun. Zhang Chenggong added that the presence of active academic institutions is a game changer in sustainably maintaining the quality of geoparks.
The Head of the Sukabumi Regency Tourism Office, Sendi Apriadi, S.STP., M.Si., who also attended, stated that the collaboration between CPUGGp and Padjadjaran University is concrete evidence of how the power of science can strengthen the tourism sector.
"This research center is the intellectual heart of CPUGGp. This is where science, conservation, and education work together to build tourism that is not only attractive but also responsible and sustainable," said Sendi. According to him, the existence of this education center also enriches the tourism narrative at CPUGGp—where tourists not only see natural beauty but also understand the history of the earth and the importance of environmental conservation.
"Tourists now seek meaning, not just scenery. Through this research center, we are able to present meaningful tourism, which educates and builds collective awareness," he added.
Optimism in this revalidation process is interpreted not merely as a means of maintaining UNESCO status, but as a momentum to open wider access to re-ground perspectives on how to redefine the ecosystem of natural sustainability more holistically, along with actualizing community empowerment towards a more prosperous and independent life.

Author: Ilham M Saputra.