With its geological complexity as a diverse volcanic mountain teeming with natural wonders like scenic landscapes, fertile soil, water, geothermal energy, minerals, rocks, and biodiversity, Dieng grapples with environmental challenges. These challenges include the potential for phreatic eruptions, gas emissions, earthquakes, landslides, and floods.
Recently, the region has faced many environmental issues, ranging from the exploitation of agricultural land and lake siltation to the effects of mass tourism, waste accumulation, and cleanliness concerns. Additionally, development that often disregards the region’s natural uniqueness and community identity threatens local culture and wisdom.
This was highlighted by Dr. Pri Utami, a Geological Engineering lecturer at the UGM Faculty of Engineering, speaking as a field supervisor for the UGM students taking part in the Community Service Program (KKN-PPM) in Dieng from Dec. 19, 2023, to Feb. 5, 2024.
Dr. Pri Utami noted that 30 students were deployed across four villages in the Batur District, namely Dieng Kulon, Karangtengah, Kepakisan, and Pekasiran. Their activities included the development of ecotourism programs aimed at optimizing natural resource utilization and mitigating natural disasters in the geothermal area.
“During their time here, the team has executed programs encompassing educational ecotourism focusing on the geology of the Dieng Plateau, geothermal energy potential, archaeological sites, and raising awareness about disaster risks,” Dr. Utami stated in a press release on Tuesday (Jan. 30).
Furthermore, students engaged in empowering MSMEs by providing training to enhance product quality, branding, marketing strategies, and the utilization of information technology. They also demonstrated circular economy principles by creating valuable products from unused materials.
Additionally, to support public health and environmental education programs, KKN students conducted vaccinations, health services, stunting prevention, and educational activities for children and older people.
“This involved analyzing raw water quality, installing water purification systems, and designing CO2 detectors,” she explained.
Team leader Reno Fauzan highlighted their collaboration with the Batur District Government in conducting education activities on natural disaster mitigation related to volcanic eruptions.
Together with partners such as the Dieng Volcano Observation Post and PT Geo Dipa Energi, they initiated an educational campaign about the potential of geothermal energy and educated elementary school students about volcanic eruption hazards.
“We aim to nurture a new generation well-versed in Dieng’s dual nature—abundant in natural resources yet prone to disasters. This movement can potentially cultivate local intellectuals capable of managing nature with indigenous wisdom for the sustainability and advancement of civilization,” Fauzan remarked.
Reno also mentioned organizing a talk show and exhibition showcasing the results of KKN student work at the Soeharto-Whitlam Pavilion in Dieng Kulon Village under the theme “Empowered and Creative Batur” on Sunday (Jan. 28). The event aimed to exhibit student work to the local community, visitors, and collaborators.
Activities included screening the film “Works of Life Values, History, and Culture of the Dieng People,” a talk show on “Exploring Dieng’s Resources and Culture” with academics, regional government officials, and geothermal industry representatives, as well as a joint exhibition of works with the team’s partner community and a photography exhibition on nature and social life in the Dieng Plateau.
Aji Piluroso, Head of Batur District, commended UGM’s ongoing community empowerment efforts in his area and emphasized the need for sustained efforts towards education about sustainable development programs to address social issues in Dieng.
“There needs to be a shift in the community’s mindset so that the slogan ‘Dieng, Land Above the Clouds’ truly reflects a community behavior rooted in environmental preservation while harnessing every natural gift,” he concluded.
Author: Gusti Grehenson