The Republic of Indonesia Territorial Atlas as Geo-literation Tools for the Adolescents

Abstract. As an independent country and has a long history that forms The Unitary State of The Republic of Indonesia, introduction to the territory and history is very necessary for Indonesia's young generation, especially for adolescents. Various efforts were made by the Government of Indonesia to provide a territorial comprehension in order to make the younger generation understand about the circumstances of their country. One effective way is through Territorial Atlas of The Republic of Indonesia, which is the result from collaboration project between Geospatial Information Agency and Ministry of Education and Culture of Indonesia. This atlas is intended towards the benefit of teenage children, who are taking middle education level between the ages of 12–15 years. It is necessary for children at that age to be equipped with spatial intelligence related to the territorial comprehension of Indonesia, the historical development of the Republic of Indonesia, and also the natural resources potential of their country.

This comprehension is needed considering that adolescence is a vulnerable age who require self-actualization, so they need to get a correct understanding of the NKRI region in order to foster the sense of nationalism. On the other hand, the important reason for production the Territorial Atlas is due to the rapid growth of development and the administrative area expansion, especially since the era of regional autonomy, was applied. Furthermore, another reason is that the atlases on the market were not up to date and geometrically did not obey the cartographic principle appropriately. This will cause a misconception for the reader, especially students in the middle school if they receive incorrect information.

Therefore, it is important to produce a territorial atlas that uses the mapping principle and correct geospatial data and information. The method used in production the territorial atlas is using the GIS method complemented by literature studies and focused group discussions with education and geospatial experts. In general, the atlas is a compilation of coherent and comprehensive geospatial information regarding 34 provinces in Indonesia, the history of the Republic of Indonesia, introduction of neighboring countries and also equipped with narratives and interesting photographs/images.

The results of this activity are in the form of The Republic of Indonesia Territorial Atlas which has been adjusted based on the applicable curriculum and will be disseminated to approximately 3,500 Junior High Schools in all regions of Indonesia in print and digital format. It is expected that through the atlas, the spatial comprehension of young people towards the NKRI region will be better and easier.