Taking Rock Samples in Indonesia
The geology in Indonesia is breath taking and rocks will beckon TSOP members to collect them when they attend the conference in September of this year.
Research on the geological aspects of Indonesia is, of course, highly encouraged and TSOP members are welcomed to collect as many samples as they like.
But, before you do, please be aware that – like in many countries in the world – it is not allowed to take those samples outside of Indonesia unless there has been a permit issued. This usually entails first getting a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with either an Indonesian university or company and then applying for a research permit.
If you rock up at the airport with samples in your bag, you are likely to be stopped and possibly fined (i.e. a monetary fine! – aka money!). At the very least, the samples will be confiscated.
So, if you are planning on taking samples during your visit to Indonesia, please contact a colleague there first and work out what the purpose is of your research, how you might collaborate and get all the paperwork done. It’s not too onerous – it just takes a little planning.