Revitalising City Tourism: Tunas Kencana Camping Ground in Pekanbaru Officially Opened
The inauguration was marked by the Environmental Awareness Camp, attended by hundreds of students and scout members. During the event, Agung Nugroho camped alongside the scout children, heads of regional device organisations (OPD), and Pekanbaru City Government officials.
In addition, there were activities such as tree planting around the lake area, the release of birds, and the seeding of fish.
“This event is designed as an ongoing agenda. If it provides benefits, we will certainly continue it in the future,” said Agung Nugroho, during a break in the activities.
Besides camping, the event was filled with various educational and bonding activities, such as outbound sessions and group film screenings. The inauguration moment was also marked by the release of birds into the wild as a symbol of concern for environmental conservation.
“Alhamdulillah, 300 participants from the Pekanbaru City Scout Branch Council were very enthusiastic in joining the activities. This event was indeed initiated by the Chair of the Pekanbaru City Scout Branch Council, Mrs Sulastri,” explained Agung.
The Tunas Kencana Camping Ground itself covers an area of about 150 hectares and will be developed as a Green-Blue Open Space (RTHB). This area is expected to become a public space that is not only visually beautiful but also functions as a centre for environmental education and community activities.
Agung emphasised that the existence of this area provides a solution for Pekanbaru residents who want to enjoy nature tourism without leaving the region. Moreover, the lake, which had been neglected for decades, has now been transformed into a recreational destination worth visiting.
“Now, the community doesn’t need to go far. Here, there is already a nature tourism spot that can be enjoyed with family,” he said.
This RTHB development programme also aligns with national policies in providing healthy, productive, and sustainable public spaces.
Meanwhile, the Chair of the Pekanbaru City Scout Branch Council, Hj Sulastri, stated that camping activities are an important means of shaping the character of the younger generation.
According to her, scouting plays a strategic role in instilling environmental awareness from an early age.
“Caring for nature is the same as caring for the future. Through this activity, children learn responsibility, togetherness, and care for the environment,” she said.
In the future, the Tunas Kencana Camping Ground is planned to become a centre for various activities, from education and youth development to community social activities, while also serving as a new icon for nature tourism in Pekanbaru City.