Two Danish diving instructors have played a key role in the Buteng 2025 Expedition, an international effort to explore and document the underwater cave systems of Buteng Regency in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. The expedition aims to map the region’s submerged caves, study its unique biodiversity, and support Buteng’s application for UNESCO Global Geopark status.
Expedition Buteng kicked off on October 13th when a 28-person team of cave divers, dry cavers, scientists, scholars, media professionals, and Muna collaborators joined forces in Pulau Muna, South Sulawesi, Indonesia for what has been dubbed as Expedition Buteng.
The expedition, was led by Danish cave diving instructor Maria Bollerup and Rannva Joermundsson from the Faroe Islands. Both divers bring extensive experience in cave diving and underwater exploration.
The Buteng cave system is largely uncharted, with complex underwater passages, freshwater ecosystems, and unique geological features. The team uses specialized diving equipment and 3D-mapping technology to create accurate maps of the submerged caves. The project also involves collecting data to help local authorities and scientists better understand the region’s biodiversity.
The initiative supports Buteng’s aspirations to become a UNESCO Global Geopark, which would boost eco-tourism in the area while raising awareness about the region’s natural heritage and the need for environmental protection.
“This expedition was not just about exploration; it’s about contributing to local knowledge and helping Buteng achieve recognition for its geological and ecological significance,” says expedition leader Maria Bollerup.
The Buteng 2025 Expedition has drawn attention from both local and international media, as it showcases how Nordic expertise in cave diving can contribute to scientific research and community development in Southeast Asia.
On 1 – 2 March 2025, the two will be on a talk show on the the Main Stage of the Go Diving-event in the UK ta,king to TV star, author and adventurer Steve Backshall.
Source: Divernet.com and Deeperblue.com
