ULM Supports Eco-Geotourism Development in South Kalimantan through Education, Research, and Collaboration
Banjarbaru – Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) demonstrated its commitment to supporting the development of Eco-Geotourism in South Kalimantan (Kalsel) through various strategic roles in education, research, and community empowerment. This was conveyed at the Eco-Geotourism International Forum held on Tuesday (July 22nd).
The event was attended by Dr. Ir. H. Muhammad Helmi, M.M., CEO of the SHafwah Group; Ir. H. Nurul Fajar Desira, CES, Deputy Chairperson of the Meratus UNESCO Global Geopark Management Board; and H. Herry Setiawan, S.E., M.M., Director of Shafwah Insani Meratus.
ULM’s Vice Rector IV for Cooperation, Public Relations, and Information Systems, Dr. Ir. Yusuf Aziz, M.Sc., who also attended the forum, emphasized that universities have a crucial role to play in promoting ecological and geological-based sustainable tourism, especially in regions rich in natural resources like South Kalimantan. Potential areas include mountains, tropical rainforests, lakes, rivers, and unique geological sites (begaya).
Universities play at least three important roles in nature-based tourism. First, in terms of research and development, ULM actively identifies potential Eco Geotourism areas in South Kalimantan. Scientific studies and feasibility studies are key to ensuring that these areas can be developed sustainably and provide economic, social, and environmental benefits to the local community.
Second, in terms of education and training, ULM has a Geological Engineering Study Program in the Faculty of Engineering, which is directly relevant to geopark development. Furthermore, ULM actively conducts outreach, outreach, and community service to increase public understanding of the importance of preserving Eco Geotourism areas.
Third, ULM is involved in community empowerment by providing assistance in managing nature-based tourism businesses. This mentoring includes training in marketing, financial management, and customer service, enabling local communities to play an active and independent role in managing the tourism area.
As a concrete commitment, ULM has expressed its readiness to collaborate with various parties, including the Shafwah Group as the area manager and the Forestry Service through its Technical Implementation Unit (UPT) Tahura.
“ULM is open to cross-sector collaboration. We have various study programs that support the development of Eco Geotourism, not only Geological Engineering, but also marketing programs such as Agribusiness and others,” said Dr. Yusuf Azis.
Furthermore, ULM is ready to assist in promoting the tourism area through the university’s various official social media platforms.
With these steps, it is hoped that the development of Eco Geotourism in South Kalimantan can be holistic, sustainable, and provide broad benefits to the environment and the community.
