Wednesday, 10 June 2026
MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM – The 50th Pekan Raya Sumatera Utara (PRSU), scheduled to take place from July 3 to August 2, 2026 in Medan, is emerging as a key driver of economic diplomacy between North Sumatra and Malaysia. The annual event is increasingly positioned as a strategic platform for trade, investment, tourism, and the creative economy across both regions.
The North Sumatra provincial government views PRSU 2026 as significantly more impactful than previous editions, especially with the renewed participation of a delegation from Penang, Malaysia, after a long hiatus. The return is widely interpreted as a strong signal of deepening economic and cultural ties.Economic and Cultural Diplomacy Strengthens
The development was highlighted during a meeting between North Sumatra Acting Provincial Secretary Sulaiman Harahap and the Penang delegation at the provincial government office in Medan. Both sides underscored PRSU's role as a bridge for international cooperation.Sulaiman Harahap stated that PRSU is not merely an entertainment event, but a strategic instrument to strengthen regional and international relations. North Sumatra and Malaysia, he noted, share longstanding historical and cultural bonds that continue to be expanded.
"This meeting is part of our efforts to strengthen unity, friendship, and partnership. It connects not only two regions but also two nations," he said.He further emphasized that the estimated 300,000 visitors expected at PRSU will offer significant opportunities for businesses to showcase products, expand markets, and build new networks.
Penang Executive Councillor for Trade and Social Integration, Goh Choon Aik, confirmed the region's active participation in PRSU 2026. Penang plans to establish a dedicated pavilion highlighting its economic and cultural strengths.
The pavilion will feature arts, culture, education, culinary specialties, and small and medium enterprise (SME) products, aiming to deepen economic cooperation with North Sumatra.Goh also highlighted the close geographical proximity between Penang and Medan, with only about a 45-minute flight separating the two. "Medan is my first visit to Indonesia in my new role," he said.
He added that around 60,000 Malaysian tourists visit North Sumatra annually, with Lake Toba among the most popular destinations. This potential, he noted, can be further enhanced through joint promotional efforts.Sister City Ties Boost Trade and Tourism
Goh recalled that Medan and Penang have maintained a sister city relationship since 1984, forming a strong foundation for cooperation in trade, tourism, education, and cultural exchange."Beyond arts and culture, we will also introduce new economic sectors that are still less known in North Sumatra," he said.
He expressed confidence that PRSU 2026 will serve as an effective platform for direct engagement among businesses, governments, and communities.
Government, Business, and Cultural Collaboration
The meeting was also attended by the Malaysian Consul General in Medan, alongside representatives of the provincial government and state-owned enterprises. All parties emphasized PRSU's importance as a platform for concrete and sustainable cooperation.The provincial government hopes PRSU 2026 will not only strengthen economic ties but also boost international tourism in North Sumatra, particularly from Malaysia as a key source market.
With preparations underway, PRSU 2026 is set to become one of the region's largest events, further positioning Medan as a hub for economic and diplomatic activity in western Indonesia. (IDNC)REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
