ITB and Kebumen Regency Government Synergy: Preserving Karangsambung as a World-Class Geological Laboratory
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Editor Anggun Nindita
KARANGSAMBUNG, itb.ac.id – The Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has once again reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the Karangsambung geoheritage in Kebumen, Central Java. This region is one of the most comprehensive geological sites in Indonesia and has served as a natural laboratory since the establishment of ITB’s Geological Field Campus in 1964 by Prof. Sukendar Asikin. Owing to its exceptional value, the government designated it as Indonesia’s first Geological Nature Reserve in 2006.
Unfortunately, the condition of this geoheritage is increasingly alarming. Many academics have expressed concern as several sites have been damaged or even lost due to natural factors and mining activities.
During his visit to the Lukulo Geological Campus in Karangsambung on Sunday (July 20, 2025), ITB Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., emphasized that without joint preservation efforts, this scientific legacy—which underpins the theory of plate tectonics—could be lost.
He explained that geoheritage conservation should not be limited to geology alone. Prof. Tata proposed a transdisciplinary approach involving multiple scientific fields, ranging from environmental science and mechanical engineering to community economics and MSME development, aiming to create holistic and sustainable solutions.
“We hope that this campus can become a driving force for the local economy,” he said.
The Rector’s visit to Karangsambung was part of the 2025 Research, Community Service, and Innovation (PPMI) program by ITB’s Geological Engineering Department, themed "Preserving Earth's Legacy for a Sustainable Geopark."
The Rector stated that ITB is ready to strengthen its support for conservation efforts in Kebumen, especially after the region was officially designated a UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp).
Currently, the Karangsambung Geological Campus is managed by the Karangsambung Geological Education Foundation (YPGK) and is in the process of being transferred under ITB’s management. The campus is well-equipped with facilities such as a museum, auditorium, and cafeteria, and has been utilized by approximately 15,000 students from 15 universities across Indonesia.
Kebumen Regent Lilis Nuryani warmly welcomed this collaboration. She revealed that the Kebumen Regency Government has prepared various regulations, including the establishment of a Geopark Management Agency to enhance cross-sector governance.
“We hope ITB will become a strategic partner in Kebumen’s sustainable development,” she said.
Meanwhile, YPGK Chairman Dr. Mirzam Abdurrachman, S.T., M.T., along with Prof. Ir. Benyamin Sapiie, Ph.D., a professor from ITB’s Geodynamics and Sedimentology Research Group, also emphasized the importance of preserving Karangsambung’s geological heritage. The area’s geoheritage is immensely rich, comprising rocks, fossils, minerals, and unique landforms that are fundamental to understanding Earth’s geological history.
“Karangsambung is not just a research site, but also holds cultural and aesthetic value, serving as an inspiration for art, tradition, and folklore,” said Prof. Benyamin.
The event concluded with the exchange of souvenirs, followed by a tour of the Karangsambung Geological Campus and visits to several geosites.
ITB hopes that this inter-institutional collaboration will further strengthen Kebumen’s position as a global center for geological research and an internationally recognized educational tourism destination.
