North Sumatra Governor pushes for Nias historical heritage to become world tourism destination

North Sumatra Governor Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution has pledged to revitalize the Tetegewo Megalithic Site in Hilisao'ötö Village, Siduaori District, Nias Selatan Regency. This initiative aims to preserve the ancestral heritage and transform the area into a leading historical tourism destination in the Nias Islands.

“

This is an important historical relic for the indigenous Nias people, so it must be protected.

The site, which houses hundreds of stone artifacts dating back thousands of years, is considered by Nasution to hold significant historical and cultural value for the indigenous Nias people. "This is an important historical relic for the indigenous Nias people, so it must be protected," Nasution stated during a visit to the site with French Ambassador Fabien Penone on Friday, July 17, 2026. "Most importantly, how can we revitalize this site and others, so that these stones remain preserved?"

Nasution and his entourage trekked to the site, learning about its history as a settlement of ancestors in the hilly region. He observed the megalithic stone arrangements and various artifacts, which are believed to resemble the foundations of traditional Nias houses, a symbol of the local culture. Despite the steep terrain, local residents hope the site will be maintained and receive government attention, including improved infrastructure and area management.

“

Most importantly, how can we revitalize this site and others, so that these stones remain preserved?

The North Sumatra Provincial Government plans a comprehensive revitalization, focusing on both physical aspects and site management. The goal is to strengthen Tetegewo's promotion as a key tourist attraction in the Nias Islands. "We want to build Nias, and for this historical heritage site, it's not just about the place itself. It's about how these artifacts can provide input for the community from a tourism perspective. This is our shared task, and we, the Provincial Government of North Sumatra, will carry out the revitalization," Nasution added.

“

We want to build Nias, and for this historical heritage site, it's not just about the place itself. It's about how these artifacts can provide input for the community from a tourism perspective. This is our shared task, and we, the Provincial Government of North Sumatra, will carry out the revitalization.

Local resident Hulu expressed pride in Nasution's attention to Nias' development, particularly the preservation of the historical site. "If this place can be developed even better, we will be very grateful. Moreover, we heard that the Governor has visited Nias several times. This increases our hope that this historical heritage can be visited by many tourists," Hulu said. The governor's visit was met with enthusiasm, with hundreds of residents gathering to greet him.

“

If this place can be developed even better, we will be very grateful. Moreover, we heard that the Governor has visited Nias several times. This increases our hope that this historical heritage can be visited by many tourists.