SOFT LAUNCH OF KM 99 REST AREA: MORE THAN A STOP, A PLATFORM FOR LOCAL MSME GROWTH
NORTH SUMATRA – PT Hutama Marga Waskita (Hamawas), the Toll Road Business Entity (BUJT) for the Kuala Tanjung – Tebing Tinggi – Parapat (Kutepat) toll road, continues to innovate in delivering quality services to road users. This commitment was marked by the soft launch of the Rest Area, or Tempat Istirahat dan Pelayanan (TIP), at kilometer (km) 99 on the Tebing Tinggi – Indrapura section of the toll road.
Hamawas Technical Director Jimmy Leonard highlighted that the soft launch is an important step toward creating not only a comfortable stop for travelers but also a platform for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their products.
“This initiative is a strategic step in developing a rest area that can serve as a hub of community activity. It is more than just a place to stop—it is a space that offers comfort, education, and serves as an economic driver for local communities,” said Jimmy.
He also expressed appreciation to the participating MSMEs, underscoring their essential role in shaping a vibrant and sustainable rest area. “Their involvement is crucial, not only in enhancing the rest area experience but also in reflecting the spirit of collaboration for shared growth. This synergy will bring long-term benefits to the local economy of Batu Bara Regency,” he added.
Supporting this view, Head of the Batu Bara Regency Office for Cooperatives and MSMEs, Hakim, welcomed the launch of the facility. “We are ready to collaborate with Hamawas and view the KM 99 rest area as a great opportunity for local traders to expand their markets and improve the local economy. Beyond serving toll road users, the facility provides a sustainable platform for local MSMEs to thrive,” he said.
The KM 99 rest area, classified as Type B, is equipped with essential amenities such as a mosque, public restrooms including facilities for persons with disabilities, a workshop, management office, waste treatment facilities, a food court featuring MSMEs, and a gas station currently in the planning stage.
Adding cultural value, the rest area also features a Mini Cultural Gallery designed to showcase the arts, crafts, and traditions of North Sumatra. This space positions the rest area not only as a travel stop but also as an educational and cultural promotion hub for visitors.