LABUHANBATU SELATAN | INDATANEWS.COM - The South Labuhanbatu Regency Government is intensifying preparations for the celebration of the regency's 18th anniversary in 2026. Beyond organizing commemorative events, the administration is also using the occasion to strengthen the local economy by accelerating the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The initiative is being carried out through a collaboration between the Economic Affairs Division of the
South Labuhanbatu Regency Secretariat and PT
Bank Sumut Kotapinang Branch. Together, they organized a
QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) socialization program and mass merchant registration at the Santun Berkata Bijak Berkarya (SBBK) Hall in Kotapinang on Friday, July 17, 2026.
Around 80 MSME entrepreneurs participated in the program. The event was officially opened by Deputy Head for Economic Affairs and Development Ralikul Rahman, representing South Labuhanbatu Regent Fery Sahputra Simatupang. The program was also attended by PT Bank Sumut Kotapinang Branch Head Asrizal Hadi Lubis and other bank representatives, reaffirming their commitment to accelerating the region's economic digitalization.
In his remarks, Ralikul Rahman emphasized that digital payment adoption is a strategic step toward improving the competitiveness of
MSMEs, particularly those expected to participate in exhibitions and other activities during the regency's 18th anniversary celebration.
"This initiative reflects the regional government's concrete commitment to continuously advancing the digital transformation of the local economy," Ralikul Rahman said.
He added that
QRIS not only simplifies cashless transactions for the public but also enables
MSMEs to expand their customer base through modern, fast, and secure digital payment systems.
Digital Payments Enhance MSME Competitiveness
During the socialization session, PT Bank Sumut Kotapinang Branch explained the various advantages of QRIS for MSMEs. The digital payment system allows business owners to accept payments from multiple digital wallets and mobile banking applications using a single QR code.
The system streamlines payment transactions, making them faster and more efficient while reducing reliance on cash. This also minimizes the risks associated with counterfeit banknotes and potential criminal activities linked to carrying large amounts of cash.
Bank Sumut further explained that all QRIS transactions are automatically recorded in real time, making bookkeeping easier, improving cash flow management, and enabling businesses to monitor their financial performance more professionally.
BOOSTING MSME COMPETITIVENESS:
South Labuhanbatu Deputy Head for Economic Affairs and Development Ralikul Rahman reaffirms the regional government's commitment to strengthening MSME competitiveness through accelerated economic digitalization and wider
QRIS adoption. (PHOTO: Jhon Fitra Sagala)
Expanding Access to Business Financing
Another key benefit of
QRIS is the creation of a comprehensive digital transaction history. Such records serve as an important indicator for banks when assessing the creditworthiness of businesses applying for financing or business loans.
With consistent and transparent transaction data, financial institutions can conduct more objective credit assessments. As a result, MSMEs have greater opportunities to secure financing for business expansion and long-term development.
According to the
South Labuhanbatu Regency Government and PT
Bank Sumut Kotapinang Branch,
QRIS offers numerous advantages for businesses. In addition to simplifying payments through a single QR code, the system enhances transaction security, supports more organized bookkeeping, and increases access to banking services and financing.
Building an Inclusive Digital Economy
The
South Labuhanbatu Regency Government views the acceleration of MSME digitalization as a vital component of the region's economic transformation, aligning with rapid technological developments and the growing adoption of cashless payments across Indonesia.
Through wider QRIS implementation, MSMEs are expected to improve business professionalism, expand access to formal financial services, and strengthen their competitiveness within the digital economy.
The collaboration between the
South Labuhanbatu Regency Government and PT
Bank Sumut Kotapinang Branch is also expected to establish a solid foundation for an inclusive digital economic ecosystem. As more
MSMEs adopt
QRIS, small businesses in Kotapinang and surrounding areas will have greater opportunities to grow, expand into broader markets, and enhance their economic resilience.
The regional government remains optimistic that accelerating digital payment adoption will strengthen the MSME sector as one of the key drivers of the local economy while contributing to the success of the South Labuhanbatu Regency's 18th anniversary celebration in 2026. (IDNC)
REPORTER:
Jhon Fitra Sagala | EDITOR:
Fik Sagala