Marriott's Entry into Samarinda Signals Strong Investment Appeal of the Riverside City

The entry of global network Marriott International into Samarinda city marks a new chapter in the investment map of the Riverside City. The construction of the four-star Courtyard by Marriott hotel, developed by PT KSA Realty Indonesia, is not merely a property project but also an indicator of increasing investor confidence in the region’s potential. In recent years, Samarinda has begun to show appeal as a new investment destination, particularly in the property and hospitality sectors. The presence of a global brand like Marriott signals that the city is starting to be noticed on the international business map. Mayor Andi Harun emphasised that this project reflects the business world’s trust in the area’s stability and economic growth prospects. “This is not just a ceremony. It is a symbol that Samarinda is trusted as a safe and promising city for investment,” he asserted. According to him, the business world’s expansion into new sectors, such as that undertaken by PT Kartika Samudra Adijaya through its subsidiary, demonstrates optimism towards the investment climate in Samarinda. This step is seen as a strategic form of business diversification amid regional development. The hotel project is designed to stand on a 8,600 square metre plot with a 19-storey building. The facilities offered are oriented towards business market needs and large-scale activities, such as a ballroom with capacity for up to 1,000 people, meeting rooms, and various supporting facilities. In addition, the development approach embracing an environmentally friendly concept provides added value. The implementation of an independent waste processing system and rainwater utilisation reflects an investment trend that is not only economically oriented but also sustainable. For investors, regional stability is the primary factor in determining investment locations. Andi Harun stressed the importance of maintaining conducive social conditions to keep that trust intact. “Where there is investment, there is a message that the area is worthy and safe for business activities. This must be maintained together,” he said. In a broader context, Samarinda is viewed as having a strategic position along with the development of the Nusantara Capital. The increasingly open regional connectivity positions the city no longer merely as a support but as part of the regional economic ecosystem. “Samarinda is no longer just a support but a strategic partner alongside Balikpapan in the Tri Cities Connected concept. This opens up great opportunities, including in the hospitality sector,” he explained. The entry of large-scale investments like this is believed to provide multiplier effects for the local economy. Not only creating jobs but also encouraging growth in other sectors such as SMEs, transportation, and supporting services. “The benefits will be felt directly by the community, both during construction and later operations,” he said. The Samarinda City Government also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining ease of permitting and investment security. This is an important part in creating a competitive business climate at the regional and national levels. “We ensure that the permitting process runs smoothly, and together with TNI-Polri, investment security will continue to be maintained. There must be no disruptions to investment activities,” he asserted. With the entry of global investors, Samarinda is slowly asserting its position as a city that not only grows but is also trusted. For the business world, trust is the primary capital—and in the Riverside City, that capital is now beginning to form.