Bobby: 'Alhamdulillah' Medan Mayor Complied with Overseas Travel Rules After Criticism

JAKARTA - Governor of North Sumatra Bobby Nasution has confirmed that Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas complied with regulations for overseas travel after previously criticising him.

Bobby stated that Mayor Waas sought permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) for his trip abroad.

“The authority for overseas travel permits rests with the Minister of Home Affairs. The President instructed the Minister to take note of this, and as subordinates to both the Minister and the President, we have communicated this to North Sumatra,” Bobby said at the DPR building in Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday, 25 May 2026.

Bobby also recalled rejecting a request for official overseas travel by the Medan City Government, which included city council members.

He reminded that overseas travel should be limited.

“We are merely following instructions and guidance from the central government. The Minister of Home Affairs also advised that travel should be limited, especially when both the executive and legislative branches were planning to travel together to China. I rejected the application. If this is seen as obstructive, I believe I am simply carrying out my duties,” Bobby added.

He also confirmed that the trip had been reported to the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Rico’s statement came after Governor Bobby Nasution raised concerns about his absence at the inauguration of the Merah Putih Village/Urban Cooperative (KDKMP) in Medan Tuntungan District on Saturday, 16 May 2026.

At the time, Bobby said he initially received information that Rico was out of town, but upon verification, he was abroad.

“It is true I am currently abroad for medical treatment. It was planned well in advance, but this was the first opportunity as it coincided with the holiday period,” said Mayor Rico Waas on Sunday, 17 May 2026.