DELI SERDANG | INDATANEWS.COM ~ The Government of Deli Serdang Regency has officially declared its readiness to host the Putri Otonomi Daerah 2026, a national event initiated by Association of Indonesian Regency Governments (APKASI).
The decision marks a strategic move by one of North Sumatra's largest regencies to position itself as a prime destination for investment and tourism on both the national and international stage.
The commitment was announced during a meeting between Deli Serdang Regent Asri Ludin Tambunan and APKASI Executive Director Sarman Simanjorang, alongside representatives from Minahasa Utara and Yayasan Putri Otonomi Indonesia. The meeting took place on Wednesday (February 18, 2026) at the Regent's official residence.
Read Also: Media Role Strengthens Objective Reporting on Indonesia’s Palm Oil Industry "We have extraordinary diversity-mountains, beaches, urban centers, and rural landscapes. This APKASI event is a major opportunity to make Deli Serdang visible not only nationally, but internationally," Asri Ludin stated.
Strategic Momentum for Investment
According to the Regent, hosting a national-scale event goes far beyond ceremonial prestige. It represents a concrete opportunity to accelerate regional development and attract new capital inflows.
He emphasized that stronger public exposure increases the likelihood of partnerships and investment cooperation.
Read Also: IKANAS North Sumatra Triumphs at Kajatisu Cup II 2026 "This is not just about organizing an event; it is about shaping the future of Deli Serdang," he said.
The regency administration views the event as a long-term catalyst to strengthen the local economic climate, promote priority development projects, and elevate North Sumatra's competitiveness.
Learning from Proven Success
Serving as host also carries both responsibility and prestige. The local government has begun comprehensive planning to ensure smooth execution.
Asri Ludin praised the successful organization of similar events in Minahasa Utara last year. The experience of the North Sulawesi regency is expected to serve as a reference for Deli Serdang's preparations.
"Minahasa Utara delivered excellent results. If they managed to successfully organize three events, we must be able to deliver at least two with equal success. Every region has its strengths—and we have our own unique advantages," he remarked.
He also stressed the importance of interregional collaboration within North Sumatra, noting that the event should not benefit Deli Serdang alone but also support tourism promotion across neighboring cities and regencies.
National Program with Broad Participation
APKASI Executive Director Sarman Simanjorang explained that prior to the Grand Final of Putri Otonomi Indonesia, a thanksgiving night and the 26th anniversary celebration of APKASI will be held.
The program will also feature women empowerment initiatives, bringing together leaders of Family Welfare Movement (TP PKK) organizations from across Indonesia.
Additional activities include an MSME (micro, small and medium enterprises) expo, a fun walk, and sports tournaments. A total of 15 finalists will undergo a four-day quarantine in Deli Serdang, during which they will actively promote the region's tourism potential.
Meanwhile, Regional Secretary of Minahasa Utara, Novly Gerith Wowiling, expressed confidence in Deli Serdang's capabilities.
"We are confident that Deli Serdang can deliver an even more successful event this year," he said. (INDC)