DELI SERDANG | INDATANEWS.COM - The Government of Deli Serdang Regency reaffirmed its position as a region that continues to grow, presents itself openly, and is ready to host major national events. This was evident during the series of Welcome Dinner events marking the 26th anniversary of the Association of Indonesian Regency Governments (APKASI) as well as the 80th anniversary celebration of Deli Serdang Regency, held in a festive atmosphere on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
The event was characterized by a warm and harmonious ambiance, taking place at Grha Bhinneka Perkasa Jaya. The gathering became a strategic moment for
Deli Serdang to welcome regency leaders from across Indonesia while strengthening the spirit of unity, collaboration, and regional development synergy.
Strengthening National Collaboration
The event was attended by North Sumatra Governor
Bobby Nasution, APKASI Chairman Bursah Zarnubi, regents from various regions across Indonesia, and other invited guests from different parts of the country.
Deli Serdang Regent Asri Ludin Tambunan expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the trust placed in Deli Serdang as the host of the 26th APKASI anniversary. He emphasized that the occasion was not only an honor but also an important opportunity to strengthen inter-regional cooperation in Indonesia.
"
Deli Serdang is honored to welcome regional leaders from across Indonesia. We hope this meeting will strengthen cooperation, expand networks, and generate new ideas and innovations for regional development and community welfare," he said alongside Deputy Regent Lom Lom Suwondo.
NORTH SUMATRA CULINARY PRESENTATION: Deli Serdang Regent Asri Ludin Tambunan and guests enjoy traditional delicacies as part of the region's cultural promotion. (PHOTO: Edi Saputra)
Culinary Identity and Cultural Strength
The Deli Serdang government also used the occasion to showcase the culinary diversity of North Sumatra to the guests. Traditional dishes such as steamed cassava leaves, Arsik goldfish, and chili shrimp paste were served as part of the cultural presentation.
Regent Asri Ludin emphasized that the region's cultural and ethnic diversity is a key strength in building its regional identity.
"Deli Serdang is home to many ethnic groups, and tonight we presented a variety of local traditional dishes," he said.
Deli Serdang Showcases Cultural Identity
In addition to culinary offerings, the regional government also highlighted its historical and cultural identity through a colossal traditional dance performance featuring young local artists. The performance was enriched by storytelling by Ilyas Bahari and Qadisah, violin music by Qiara, and musical accompaniment by Rizky Nasywa, creating a vibrant and meaningful artistic atmosphere.
Furthermore, the performance by the
Deli Serdang Pesparawi ensemble, which had recently returned from Papua, further strengthened the spirit of cultural diversity and national unity.
DELI SERDANG PEOPLE'S CELEBRATION: Thousands of residents celebrate the 80th anniversary at the town square featuring performances by Lyodra and Armada band. (PHOTO: Edi Saputra)
Support and National Recognition
North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution praised Deli Serdang's readiness as host of the 26th APKASI anniversary, which was held for the first time on the island of Sumatra. He said this reflected the region's growing capacity and development at the national level.
"This shows that
Deli Serdang is a good and outstanding regency, not only in North Sumatra but also at the national level," he stated.
APKASI Chairman Bursah Zarnubi also commended the organization of the event, describing it as orderly, warm, and hospitable. He said Deli Serdang had demonstrated its competence as a mature host.
"I thank the Government of
Deli Serdang and the entire organizing committee for the excellent reception.
Deli Serdang is very well prepared to host this event," he said.
He also expressed hope that Deli Serdang Regency will continue to progress as it reaches its 80th year.
"I hope
Deli Serdang will continue to be at the forefront of development in its 80th year and continue to grow and improve," he added.
People's Festival Caps Anniversary Celebration
Following the Welcome Dinner, the celebration continued with a major people's festival marking the 80th anniversary of
Deli Serdang Regency at the town square. Thousands of residents filled the venue until the end of the program.
The event opened with a performance by the TMO Band, creating a lively atmosphere. Excitement peaked when national singer Lyodra took the stage and captivated the audience with her songs.
The joint performance of Lyodra and young talent Qiara also drew significant attention and enthusiastic applause.
The highlight of the evening came when the band Armada performed a series of popular songs, turning the entire square into a sea of voices and cheers.
Regent
Asri Ludin Tambunan and Deputy Regent Lom Lom Suwondo actively participated in the festivities, interacting directly with residents and artists.
The entire event reflected Deli Serdang's commitment to preserving cultural heritage, strengthening unity, and fostering inter-regional cooperation. Through the APKASI and Deli Serdang anniversaries, the region presented itself as hospitable, dynamic, progressive, and nationally competitive. (IDNC)
REPORTER:
Edi Saputra | EDITOR:
Fik Sagala