"Yes, (we will optimise) this moment of awakening by organising Tarkam leagues in regions. Minister Dito Ariotedjo has also planned to make it one of the ministry's priority programmes," the ministry's Special Staff, Alvin Suryohadiprojo, stated in a statement on Sunday.
The special staff added that besides football athletes, the authorities also seek to nurture athletes from other sport branches.
"We are doing it to ensure new talents will be born at the grassroots level and to nurture them before competing in professional-level competitions," he said.
The Indonesian contingent for the 2023 SEA Games surpassed their medal target by winning a total of 87 gold medals, 80 silver medals, and 109 bronze medals.
Moreover, the national football team ended the nation's 32-year wait for SEA Games' football victory by winning against Thailand in the final match on Tuesday (May 16), and Indonesia women's basketball team also won their first gold in SEA Games.
As most residents will focus on the football team's achievements, for it is the most popular sport in Indonesia, the ministry will make the most of the opportunities to push the team to achieve more victories in international competitions.
"This momentum should trigger all stakeholders in Indonesia's football to boost its power and growth throughout the country," Suryohadiprojo said.
The special staff said the ministry acknowledged the importance of investment in physical aspects to develop the national football, such as by improving sports infrastructure and training facilities.
However, athletes' development should not be left behind, and the government will equally focus on that aspect, he added.
"Talents cannot be nurtured only by searching for it, as they must be nurtured by competition. Athletes are developed by competitions that form their mental, physics, and outlook in playing football, which will increase their quality," Suryohadiprojo remarked.
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Translator: Bayu Kuncahyo, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Sri Haryati
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