Green Nature? Prosperous Community?

Lebak, Banten’s largest regency, is rich in resources but ranks as the second poorest in GRDP (2023). Its key asset, Bayah Dome Geopark, spans 201,537 hectares with 30+ geological sites, diverse wildlife, and mineral wealth. Aspiring for UNESCO status, it has strong tourism potential. The government aims to boost infrastructure, including reactivating the Saketi-Bayah railway, built by romushas during Japanese occupation. However, revitalization faces hurdles like land acquisition, road encroachments, and repurposed stations. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for economic growth.

To support Bayah Dome Geopark's aspiration and to generate economic growth, this project implemented 4 big moves: 1. Reactivate the Armature In alignment to the government plan, to reactivate Saketi-Bayah railway line is essential to enhance connectivity to the region and specifically to Bayah Dome Geopark destinations. Reactivating the railway line will also increase economic opportunity, which will stimulate economic growth to the region. 2. Rail to Trail The government are planning a slightly different route for the new Saketi-Bayah railway line. Hence it opens up an opportunity for a rail to trail conversion. Converting the inactive railway corridor into a multipurpose trail serves a different experience for the citizens and visitors to explore Lebak from a new perspective while highlighting the different geopark feature along the way. 3. Station Integration Integrate the new Malingping train station with other public and cultural facilities. To support the Bayah Dome Geopark aspirations to become UNESCO Global Geopark, a new information center and museum will be integrated to the train station. This will not only make the station a more desirable destination, but also make the information center and museum more accessible to the public. 4. Preserve and Enhance Preserve and enhance the found feature on site, in this case, an existing patch of urban forest. Maintain its heterogeneity and enhance its connectivity to the neighboring patches. By implementing these strategies, the project fosters sustainable development while respecting Lebak’s rich cultural and natural heritage.