Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia is preparing around 50 athletes for this year's Asian Para Games, which will be held in Hangzhou, China, from October 22 to 28, according to Senny Marbun, the general chairperson of the Indonesian National Paralympic Committee (NPC).

"They will compete in 12 sports, such as athletics, table tennis, badminton, and chess, among others," Marbun stated in Jakarta on Monday.

He did not clearly mention the target number of medals to be won at the biggest disability sporting event in Asia.

"It would be great if we could win 9 gold medals," he added, while describing some countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Egypt as tough rivals.

Marbun also highlighted that badminton presents Indonesia's best opportunity to win medals in the multi-sport event, which takes place once every four years.

In the previous Asian Para Games held in Jakarta in 2018, Indonesia finished fifth, securing 37 gold medals, 47 silvers, and 51 bronzes.

China led the overall medal tally with 172 golds, 88 silvers, and 59 bronzes, followed by South Korea in second place with 54 golds, 44 silvers, and 46 bronzes.

Dito Ariotedjo, the Minister of Youth and Sports, stated that the selection of the Indonesian contingent for the Hangzhou Asian Para Games is still under discussion by the review panel. The panel will provide recommendations on the team's prospects for the Games.

"We will assess which sports and athletes will be sent (to the Games)," he added.

Related news: Indonesia crowned overall champion in ASEAN para-badminton
Related news: Proud of general champion hat trick at APG 2023: Minister

Translator: Shofi Ayudiana
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2023