Assessment of Geotourism Potential in Maruni and Surrounding Areas Using the Modified Geosite Assessment Model (M-GAM) Method in Manokwari Regency, West Papua
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This research was conducted in the Maruni area and its surroundings, located in South Manokwari District, Manokwari Regency, West Papua Province. The area exhibits diverse geological landscapes such as coastal zones, karst hills, and river systems that hold significant potential for geotourism development based on conservation principles. The objectives of this study are to assess the geotourism potential of the Maruni area through the identification and evaluation of its scientific, aesthetic, accessibility, and additional values that support sustainable geotourism development. The research also aims to provide benefits in terms of geological resource management, local economic enhancement, and the preservation of geological heritage in West Papua. The research method employed is the Modified Geosite Assessment Model (M-GAM), a quantitative approach that evaluates geosites based on two major value groups: Main Values (MV) and Additional Values (AV). Data were collected through field observation, documentation, interviews with local communities and related stakeholders, and literature review. Each parameter was scored on a scale of 0–5, and the total MV and AV scores were calculated to determine the potential level of each geosite. The results show that the Maruni area possesses a high potential for geotourism development. The Maruni Beach geosite achieved an MV score of 5,00 and an AV score of 4,20, while the score Maruni Karst Hill MV score 4,21 and an AV 4,00, Maruni River, and Coastal Panorama geosites also demonstrated significant potential. Based on their positions within the M-GAM matrix, all geosites fall into the high-potential geosite category, indicating strong prospects for development as educational, conservation-based, and competitive geotourism destinations. These findings emphasize that geotourism development in the Maruni area can contribute substantially to regional geopark promotion and local community empowerment
Authors: Alhen Egho Saiba, David Mamengko, Silvi Tebaiy
Language: English
Subfield: Geology
Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7104670195