Samosir Strengthens Tourism Sector through Digitalisation of Payment Systems
The Samosir Regency Government in North Sumatra is continuously striving to provide conveniences for tourism stakeholders. One of these efforts involves strengthening the tourism sector through the digitalisation of payment systems and improving tax compliance. This initiative is being realised through collaboration with Bank Indonesia (BI), Bank Sumut, and the Samosir District Prosecutor’s Office.
Ariston emphasised the importance of implementing digital payment systems in the tourism sector. According to him, manual payment systems still pose challenges for tourists visiting Samosir.
“Like it or not, application-based systems must be implemented. Manual payments are one of the obstacles for tourists, so digitalisation is a necessity,” said Ariston at the JTS Parbaba Hotel in Samosir on Wednesday (8/4).
He also reminded business actors to continuously enhance their capacities and not become complacent with the current conditions.
“Do not be satisfied with the current situation. Keep learning, develop potentials, and strengthen networks. Entrepreneurs must have selling power to be able to compete,” he said.
In addition, Ariston stressed the importance of maintaining service quality, cleanliness, and etiquette in welcoming tourists.
“Guests are kings. Maintain cleanliness, politeness, respect every visitor so they return to Samosir,” he urged.
He also invited all business actors to maintain a positive image of tourism by avoiding various issues that could damage tourist trust. Building a positive image, unifying views, and avoiding problems so that tourists feel safe and comfortable.
In terms of business management, Ariston assessed that Samosir cannot rely solely on natural beauty but must be supported by human resources and good management.
“Samosir cannot be based solely on nature, but must be supported by human resources, good organisation, and ease of transactions,” he added.
Ariston emphasised that business actors should not be averse to taxes, as they are an obligation and an important part of regional development.
“We all must join hands. The taxes paid will return for the development of Samosir and the welfare of the community,” he asserted.
Meanwhile, representing the Bank Sumut Head Office, Joy Boy Halomoan Sibuea, expressed support for the digitalisation of payment systems in the tourism sector.
“We invite business actors to use digital payment systems. Samosir’s tourism potential is very large and becomes the strength of the regional economy,” he said.
He even stated that the beauty of Lake Toba is no less than Bali and is a shared pride. With extraordinary potential, it becomes gold for the local economy.
Joy added that Bank Sumut has provided various supporting facilities such as ATM services at several points to facilitate tourist transactions.
“We are present to support non-cash payment systems through QRIS to increase tourist comfort,” he explained.
The representative of BI Sibolga, Zailani Sinaga, emphasised the importance of consumer protection amid the increasing digitalisation of payment systems.
“We will continue to encourage strengthening consumer protection along with the increasing use of digital systems,” he said.
From the legal side, the Samosir District Prosecutor’s Office through the Head of Legal Section, Maulita Sari, affirmed its commitment to supporting the increase in Regional Original Revenue (PAD) through tax compliance.
“The Prosecutor’s Office is present as the state’s advocate to assist the government, including in risk mitigation and legal assistance,” she said.
She explained that they also provide legal assistance and mediation for business actors who have not fulfilled their tax obligations.
“Taxes are obligations regulated by law and are an important part of regional development,” she said.