During a podcast in Jakarta on Thursday, Ariotedjo highlighted that the task force had been formed through Presidential Decree No. 24 of 2024, signed on June 31, to ensure that this year's PON runs well within legitimate corridors.
"Hence, everything that happened during the PON will be assessed," he remarked, as cited from his office's statement received here.
The minister made these remarks in response to complaints voiced by members of the public on social media regarding the holding of the recently concluded first-ever multi-province PON, which drew participation from around 13 thousand athletes and 39 thousand officials from across Indonesia.
"I do not wish to witness issues, including corruption allegations, go viral and unanswered. For that reason, I would like to stress that we have a dedicated task force that will respond to people's complaints (allegations)," he pointed out.
The task force is responsible for monitoring the 2024 PON and overseeing the implementation of the forthcoming National Paralympic Week in Central Java, according to a Cabinet Secretariat's statement.
Despite the polemic, Ariotedjo praised the sound level of synergy demonstrated by the central and regional governments to make the 21st PON held on September 9-20 a successful grand national event.
"Thank God, to coordinate with regions, we received full support from Mr. President (Joko Widodo), who delegated Home Affairs Minister (Tito Karnavian) and Public Works and Public Housing Minister (Basuki Hadimuljono)," he remarked.
He then lauded Aceh and North Sumatra for their success in preparing 65 proper venues for the multi-sport event.
"A majority of contingents, regional governments, and athletes were happy," he remarked.
The minister also drew attention to the subsequent edition of PON, saying that he favors the next government focusing the event on sports contested at the Olympics and Asian Games.
The provinces of West Nusa Tenggara and East Nusa Tenggara will co-host the 22nd PON in 2028.
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Translator: Aditya R, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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