While attending the sending-off event of the Indonesian contingent for the ASEAN Para Games at the Surakarta Town Hall, Monday, Youth and Sports Minister, Dito Ariotedjo, stated that the athletes have been conducting preparations since 2022 through an uninterrupted centered national training.
"This is one instance of the implementation of Presidential Regulation No 86 of 2021 concerning the Grand Design of National Sports (DBON). Therefore, we all should extend gratitude to Mr President Joko Widodo. Hopefully, this continuous coaching program will lead to optimal achievements at international multi events," he remarked.
The minister also expressed hope that the Indonesian athletes would maximize their performance and achievements both at the ASEAN Para Games and the Asian Para Games as proving grounds before reaching the upcoming Paralympic Games.
"Hence, I urge you all to fight, compete with your finest performance, and continue to uphold (the spirit of) sportsmanship. The results at the ASEAN Para Games will serve as a benchmark to better prepare ourselves to face the upcoming Olympics (Paralympic Games)," he affirmed.
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On the same occasion, Chef de Mission (CdM) of the Indonesian contingent Andi Suherman stated that the contingent comprised 500 people, 286 of whom are athletes, who will be competing in 12 sports branches.
As for the medal tally target, Indonesia is eyeing to clinch 121 gold, 92 silver, and 84 bronze medals.
"We have carried out analysis and evaluation on the potential and achievements of the athletes during their training at the national training center. Based on the results, we have stipulated a target to win the title of general champion at the 2023 ASEAN Para Games," he remarked.
He stated that the target was realistically set and is expected to serve as a stimulus for the athletes to give their best at the 12th edition of the multi-branch sports event.
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Translator: Aris Wasita, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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