Kemenkomarves: Investment In Toba More Than IDR 8 Trillion In 5 Years

DOK ANTARA

JAKARTA - Deputy for Tourism and Creative Economy Coordination of the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Kemenko Marves) Odo Manuhutu said investment in the Lake Toba area, North Sumatra was more than IDR 8 trillion in the last 5 6 years.

"The government's investment is more than IDR 8 trillion over the last 5' 6 years," said Odo as quoted by ANTARA, Monday, February 19.

These various investments contribute to the development of a number of infrastructures that support Lake Toba as one of the super priority tourism destinations. In 7 '8 years ago, said Odo, there was only one airport in Medan, North Sumatra.

Currently, he said, there is already an airport in Silangit, North Sumatra, and by the end of 2024 there will be an airport opening in Sibisa, North Sumatra.

In addition, Odo explained that the government is building toll roads and 13 new ports around Lake Toba.

"In addition to investing in various infrastructures, what is important is training the people in Lake Toba regarding hospitality," said Odo.

Odo explained that basic infrastructure, such as roads and airports, is important. However, according to him, what is more important is soft infrastructure such as a more friendly society.

"Like if we go to Jogja or Bali. That (hospitality training) takes time," said Odo.

When investing so much, said Odo continued, it is important to get a return on investment (ROI) for the government. One of the steps to get ROI is through the implementation of the event.

"Eventini, pertama menaikkan branding, kedua mendorong traffic," ucap dia.

These two things, according to Odo, will have a strong economic impact, as happened in Lake Toba at the 2023 F1 Powerboat event.

Not only do tourists come to fill the available hotels, but also spend the night at people's homes at a price set by each owner of the residence.

"This means that the community will also benefit from this activity, and the hope is that this activity will continue to be carried out in a sustainable manner for the next 10 years," said Odo.

Previously, Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said that the implementation of the Lake Toba F1 Powerboat in 2023 had an economic impact of Rp1.68 trillion and succeeded in bringing in around 100 thousand tourists.

Luhut asked all stakeholders to work together in the success of the second Lake Toba F1 Powerboat event, which will be held on March 2-3, 2024.

"I hope we all work together, work in teamwork, we don't work alone to make this a success," said Luhut.