Danau Toba is set to undergo an exciting transformation. The Samosir government plans to revamp the coastline along a 22 km stretch, creating a new tourism icon, fully supported by Governor Bobby Nasution of North Sumatra. “The Long Beach concept can revitalise the economy of Samosir. The provincial government is ready to support this initiative. Achieving this vision requires collaboration and synergy between the district, provincial, and central governments,” Bobby stated, as reported on Monday, July 7, 2025.
The beach will stretch from Tano Ponggol in Pangururan District to Simanindo Port in Simanindo District, Samosir Regency. Bobby highlighted that this plan is in the works, emphasizing the need to consider and prepare for various challenges, including the lengthy process of land acquisition currently occupied by local residents. “Collaborative efforts are essential, with all stakeholders providing support to ensure the project runs smoothly,” he stated.
Moreover, Bobby mentioned that the overall design for the Long Beach development must take into account factors such as management, maintenance, and the aesthetic appeal of the coastal area. In other words, a long-term analysis is necessary so that every spot or location becomes an attractive destination for visitors, including local, national, and international tourists, aligning with Danau Toba’s global reputation.
“It’s not just about building; we must also understand how to maintain each spot moving forward. A clear concept is necessary to guarantee that this project truly benefits the community,” he explained. Additionally, Bobby called for full support from the Samosir Regency government for upcoming international events and the revalidation of the Toba Caldera Geopark. In October 2025, the region will host the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (KTMB) race, with an estimated 5,000 participants from various countries.
“This is more than just a running event; it serves to promote tourism in North Sumatra, particularly around Danau Toba. Participants may stay for up to a week, so we must ensure they are aware of enjoyable tourist attractions,” Bobby remarked.
“This isn’t just about running; we’re talking about promoting tourism and supporting the local economy. Participants will be here for a week, and we need to ensure they know where to go. The running routes and tourist sites must be adequately prepared,” he added. Meanwhile, UNESCO’s Global Geopark Toba Caldera will undergo revalidation in July 2025. Currently, its status is at “yellow card,” a warning sign, having previously received a green card.
“There are several significant geosites in Samosir. We hope that through our collective efforts, including the Long Beach development and this international event, Samosir can regain its green card for Geopark Kaldera Toba,” he concluded.
