Last February, Lumban Bulbul Village in the Balige Area hosted the international F1 Power Boat event. Along with the stunning landscape of Lake Toba's shoreline, the sincerity of the local tourism players in welcoming guests and tourists created lasting memories for those who visited. Experience Indonesia in 360.
So, Sobat Pesona, what was the story behind the locals' readiness to welcome tourists from various countries during that time?
Haji Halasan Simangunsong, Manager of a Muslim Eatery and Prayer Facility
Mr. Haji Halasan Simangunsong, owner of the Suteja Muslim Eatery at Lumban Bulbul Beach
shared, “Our eatery offers halal meals so that Muslim guests in Lumban Bulbul can dine safely. For those who want to pray, there is a musholla (prayer room) at the back. As fellow Muslims, my wife and I feel it's our duty to cater to the needs of Muslim guests visiting our village.”
The most popular menu among the guests is grilled tilapia, along with practical dishes like noodles, snacks, and beverages.
Together with his wife, Mr. Halasan runs the Suteja Muslim Eatery.
He explained that the primary reason for managing the eatery wasn’t financial needs, as their four children, including Suteja, had grown up and become independent. Instead, he and his wife felt called to fulfill the needs of the tourists. They wanted to make it easier for Muslim visitors to enjoy halal food and find a place to pray.
Especially since Balige, including Lumban Bulbul Village, was chosen as the venue for world-class events like the F1H2O, which attracted many visitors from diverse backgrounds. Like Mr. Halasan, the people of Lumban Bulbul Tourism Village, particularly the tourism players, are proud to have their village host such major events.
Dedi Simangunsong, Manager of ATV and Canoe Attractions at Lumban Bulbul Beach
Similarly, Mr. Dedi Simangunsong, who manages canoe and ATV rentals at Lumban Bulbul Beach
shared, "As part of the Lumban Bulbul area, which has been designated as a Tourist Village and the location for F1 Powerboat, each resident must take responsibility and give their best. We want the guests to feel comfortable and happy. When they return home, they will have unforgettable memories from Lumban Bulbul."
For Mr. Dedi, one way to ensure guests' happiness is by offering exciting activities on the beach. His business, which rents out canoes and ATVs, allows guests to ride an ATV for 30 minutes for Rp 50,000 or rent a canoe for an hour for Rp 30,000. For safety, life jackets are provided, and guests also receive instructions or guidance while riding.
The tourism sector has indeed flourished in Lumban Bulbul Village, which motivated Mr. Dedi to shift from his office job to becoming an ATV and canoe service provider. He admits that this decision has also boosted his family’s economy.
Residents and Tourism Players Work Hand in Hand to Maintain Cleanliness
In addition to providing the best services in their respective roles, the residents and tourism players of Lumban Bulbul Village work together to maintain the cleanliness and safety of the beach and surrounding areas. It’s no surprise that the Pasir Putih Bulbul Beach is well-maintained, clean, and free from garbage. Neatly placed trash bins are available, including a unique fish-shaped trash can on the beach.
When a tourist spot is clean, visitors are less likely to litter. To ensure the cleanliness of the beach, there are dedicated staff members responsible for upkeep. Among them is an organization called OPS (Onshore Power Supply), which manages the operations, security, cleanliness, and all other crucial aspects related to the lake’s tourism. The engines of the boats and ATVs rented out to guests are also inspected by this organization, ensuring that, in addition to cleanliness, safety and security are top priorities.
Curious about how beautiful and clean this beach is? Come and visit Lumban Bulbul Village!
Children Playing Football by the Bulbul Beach
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