Syamsul Arifin (1952-2023) was an Indonesian politician, primarily known for serving as the Governor of North Sumatra. His political career peaked as the Regent (Bupati) of Langkat, a position he held for two consecutive terms from 1999 to 2008. During this period, he consolidated a strong local power base that led him to victory in the 2008 gubernatorial election, becoming the province's first governor to be directly elected by the people. His term, however, was cut short in 2011 following a corruption conviction related to his previous position as regent. The legal case led to his formal dismissal from office and marked the end of his political influence. Despite his rise, his legacy remains controversial due to the allegations that compromised his career.