Jakarta. Last year, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo inaugurated the Aek Tano Ponggol Dalihan Natolu bridge that connects the Sumatra and Samosir islands. The bridge -- which cost the government approximately Rp 157 billion ($10.1 million) -- has become a blessing for the tourism sector and eventually local small businesses.

The Aek Tano Ponggol bridge enables travelers to go to Samosir Island, which lies at the center of the tourist destination Lake Toba, via land routes.

Local businesses, be it food sellers or pedicab (becak) drivers, admitted that their businesses had thrived following the improved access to Samosir.

The 46-year-old Rima Naibaho sells gomak noodles, a traditional cuisine in North Sumatra. Rima sells tens of portions every day. Within just a year of sales, the earnings from her noodle business are enough to pay for her daily needs, including her children’s education.

“I see a huge business opportunity [when the bridge opens]. A portion of gomak noodles cost Rp 5,000 [around $0.32], so it’s cheap. It helps me pay my loans and daily needs,” Rima told Beritasatu.com, not long ago.

Rima admitted that she never imagined that her hometown would get a well-made bridge that would bring benefits to the people. She said that it was only in Jokowi’s era that the access to Samosir had improved.

The 50-year-old pedicab driver Paruntungan Pandiangan also said that tourist numbers had jumped following the bridge’s establishment. This has also caused his income to double.

“Our [pedicab drivers’] income had jumped from Rp 100,000 to Rp 200,000. We usually make good money as we get closer to the weekend. … I think we locals need to be proud. Thank you very much, Mr. Jokowi,” Paruntungan said.

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