"We carry out this countdown which is attended by me who represents the central government, the National Sports Committee of Indonesia (KONI) Chairman who is in charge of PON, and the regional heads who will host the 2024 PON XXI," Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo said in a statement here on Sunday.
According to him, the countdown event indicated the preparation and readiness of 2024 PON XXI which is being conducted with collaboration, commitment, and togetherness.
In the event, Chairman of KONI Marciano Norman raised the flag to start the Run for PON at 6 a.m. local time.
The run started from the West Plaza of the GBK Sports Complex to Asia-Afrika Street, to Sudirman Street, then turned to Gatot Subroto, to Gerbang Pemuda Street, and finished at the West Plaza.
"One year from now, PON will be held in Aceh and North Sumatra, thereby reminding all elements of society to promote it so we can be all enthusiastic about welcoming and supporting PON XXI," Ariotedjo said.
Seeing the public's enthusiasm, Chairman of KONI Norman expressed hope that the 21st PON in Aceh-North Sumatra will be successful with the support and togetherness of various parties.
"In its implementation later, the 21st PON is the first one that will be held in two provinces, and the first PON that will be participated by 38 provinces," he said.
He hoped that the PON next year would run smoothly and become a sports event that unifies the nation.
Acting Governor of Aceh Achmad Marzuki who was present also expressed his support for the Run for PON.
Marzuki said that the readiness of several sports venues for the 21st PON has reached 90 percent.
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Translator: Fajar S, Kenzu
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
