One of Gunung Geulis’ special charm is its relatively low peak, standing at approximately 1,803 meters above sea level, making it an appealing destination for nature exploration.

The event was also attended by the Vice Rector for Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Dr. Irwan Meilano, S.T., M.Sc.; the Vice Rector for Communication, Partnerships, Alumni Relations, and Administration, Dr. Andryanto Rikrik Kusmara, S.Sn., M.Sn.; the Head of the Business and Sustainable Fund Management Agency, Prof. Dr.rer.nat Poerbandono, S.T., M.M.; a lecturer from the Global Geophysics Research Group, Dr. Ir. Endra Gunawan, S.T, M.Sc.; a lecturer from the Aesthetics and Art Research Group, Dr. Irma Damajanti, S.Sn., M.Sn.; and ITB Petroleum Engineering alumnus Ikhrom Eko Hari Saputro.

A total of 20 participants joined the journey, which began at 7:30 AM WIB. The activity was accompanied by the management team, including faculty members from the Management of Bioresources Research Group, Dr. Ir. Endang Hernawan, M.T., and Dr. Sopandi Suryana, as well as the site supervisor, Rukmana, and assistant supervisor, Tegar. The trek to the summit took approximately two hours, followed by a gathering session and the planting of sonokeling (rosewood) seedlings.

A total of 12 sonokeling seedlings were planted, based on the available supply. This activity was organized to foster a love for nature while also assessing the field conditions at SLST's natural laboratory.

Dr. Endang stated that the preparation for this event was relatively brief. However, to ensure the activity ran smoothly, several key aspects needed to be addressed, including ensuring that the hiking trail was safe and free from landslide risks, preparing the seedlings, and making planting holes in advance.

He stated that this forest area is currently being developed to support education at ITB. The process is still in the stage of boundary arrangement and management planning, which includes creating blocks and compartments.

"In the future, it is hoped that there will be dedicated blocks for other study programs at Gunung Geulis, such as a studio for SAPPD (School of Architecture, Planning, and Policy Development), a measurement block for FEST (Faculty of Earth Sciences and Technology), and others," he stated.

"Hopefully, more people will take an interest in Gunung Geulis. Let’s work together to develop Gunung Geulis ITB, not only as an educational facility but also as an icon of ITB," concluded Dr. Endang.

Reporter: Yohana Aprilianna (Urban and Regional Planning, 2021)
Translator: Hanna Daniela Ayu (Aerospace Engineering, 2021)
Editor: Anggi Nurdiani (Management, 2024)