
Even though North Sumatra has experienced an increase in economic growth again, it has not completely returned to its initial condition before the pandemic. One of the strategic sectors that plays an important role in this context is the tourism sector and its local potential has a very important role. In this report, we reveal our findings and recommendations from a study conducted by Article 33 Indonesia, in collaboration with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Indonesia, and the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenko PMK) regarding the development of potential-based cooperation local excellence in supporting national economic recovery, with a focus on the Lake Toba area.
The Tourism Sector as an Engine for Economic Recovery
The tourism sector has long been recognized as a powerful engine of economic recovery. Apart from contributing significantly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), this sector also creates jobs, supports related sectors, and makes a substantial contribution to the country's foreign exchange.
Potential of the Lake Toba Area
The Lake Toba area, as one of the Super Priority Tourism Destinations (DPSP), offers great potential to support economic recovery. Its stunning natural beauty, rich culture and diverse local potential make it an attractive destination for domestic and international tourists.
MSMEs and Digital Marketing
This study also highlights the importance of strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in tourism areas. Increasing digital-based marketing via the internet among MSMEs is one way to maximize local economic potential.
This report aims to:
- Understand the economic links of North Sumatra province with other provinces and the tourism sector with other economic sectors.
- Evaluate the readiness of MSMEs in the Lake Toba area to enter the digital marketing era.
- Provide recommendations to relevant stakeholders, such as MSMEs, human resources, and Village-Owned Enterprises (BumDes) in the study area, to support economic improvement in the near term.
- Analyzing the effectiveness of investment in economic growth in the Samosir Regency, Simalungun Regency and Toba Regency areas, as well as the amount of investment required to achieve targeted economic growth.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the global economic landscape, and economic recovery is a major challenge. In this context, the tourism sector and its local potential have a very important role. This report presents findings and recommendations for exploiting the potential of the Lake Toba area as an effort to support national economic recovery.
We invite you to explore this complete research report to understand further how developing cooperation based on local superior potential can be an effective motor for economic recovery in the post-pandemic era, especially in the Lake Toba area.
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