Speaking to journalists during jiu-jitsu matches at the North Sumatra Sports Center, Deli Serdang district, he said that the closing ceremony of the 21st PON will mark a break from tradition.
"In the previous editions of PON, the President opened the event and the Vice President closed it. However, Mr. Vice President (Ma'ruf Amin) is unable to attend this year's ceremony. Hence, Mr. President (Joko Widodo) has decided to delegate the closing ceremony to Minister Effendy," he explained.
Norman said that the closing ceremony of the first-ever PON to be co-hosted by two provinces will take place at the North Sumatra Sports Center on Friday (September 20, 2024) evening.
He then highlighted that the PON has drawn participation from contingents from all 38 provinces of Indonesia and even, the country's future capital Nusantara — reflecting a strong commitment to national inclusiveness.
He then invited people to join the closing ceremony with high enthusiasm, adding that it will be broadcast on national television so that the broader population can enjoy it.
He noted that the 21st PON has seen stunning performances from athletes fighting for their home provinces. He further said he believes that the athletes will emerge as future national sports stars.
Bearing that in mind, he expressed the hope that the upcoming closing ceremony will reignite the Indonesian people's pride in their great nation.
"Let us make Indonesia proud during tomorrow's ceremony, as the PON can give birth to our future sports talents," he added.
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Translator: Muhammad H, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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