Jambi, June 27 -- Indonesia's Jambi provincial government is stepping up conservation efforts to help the Merangin Jambi Geopark retain its UNESCO Global Geoparks status during this year's revalidation.

"We are confident our geopark will remain part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks network," Jambi Governor Al Haris said in Jambi on Saturday.

He said a verification team is scheduled to reassess the 4,832.31-square-kilometer geopark this year. The site spans 12 sub-districts and 131 villages in Merangin District.

According to the governor, local communities have continued to protect the area and prevent environmental damage to ensure the geopark maintains its international recognition.

Al Haris added that the Merangin district administrati...