In the past, the welfare of athletes did not receive attention. It often became a joke that their fate is not clear. If they can maintain their achievements, then they are kept, (but) if they stop (retire), they would be forgottenJakarta (ANTARA) - Youth and Sports Minister Zainudin Amali ensured that better attention would be given to athletes and their welfare through Law No. 11 of 2022 on sports.
"In the past, the welfare of athletes did not receive attention. It often became a joke that their fate is not clear. If they can maintain their achievements, then they are kept, (but) if they stop (retire), they would be forgotten," the minister noted during a virtual national seminar here on Wednesday.
Amali emphasized the need to fight for the athletes' welfare to prevent any further uncertainty about their life, especially during retirement.
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Through Law No. 11 of 2022 that is a revision of Law No. 3 of 2005 concerning the national sports system, the government expects that the athlete profession can be a promising choice for the younger generation, so that they can focus on contributing to national or international achievements.
"Those who become athletes do not immediately choose this path but have prepared since school age. They have made lots of sacrifices, so they must have guarantees and certainty of income. This is what is fought for in Law No. 11 of 2022 regarding the profession of athletes," Amali explained.
On the same occasion, the Ministry's Acting Deputy for Sports Achievement Improvement Raden Isnanta explained that the law also pays attention to the sports industry, so that all levels of society can feel the economic impact.
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The current trend of sports implementation is oriented toward economic activities ranging from location, accommodation, and equipment to sponsorship.
"Making a sporting event must be economic. This is different from the old days that only sought achievements or existence. Even the cash turnover for sports needs reaches Rp43 trillion per year," Isnanta stated.
He expressed hope that through implementation of the law, national sports can rise not only in terms of achievements but also from the economic aspect of every athlete.
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Translator: Roy B, Kenzu
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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