Solo, Central Java (ANTARA) - Minister of Youth and Sports Dito Ariotedjo expressed optimism that the 2024 National Paralympic Week (Peparnas) in Solo will bring significant economic benefits to Central Java.

"We will conduct a comprehensive study on the economic impact after Peparnas concludes," he told the press at the Peparnas media center in Solo on Sunday.

He emphasized that hosting Peparnas can stimulate economic growth in the region.

Ariotedjo noted that in 2021, the 20th National Sports Week (PON) and 16th Peparnas, held in Papua, generated Rp1.6 trillion (around US$103.6 million) for the province.

He added that the central government has allocated a budget of Rp290 billion (around US$18.8 million) for the 17th Peparnas, which he expects will drive developments not only in sports but also in other sectors.

"However, the most important thing is how this year's Peparnas provides equal opportunities for all athletes to showcase their best performances," he added.

Ariotedjo expressed confidence that the 2024 Peparnas will serve as a proving ground for para-athletes who will represent Indonesia in the ASEAN Para Games, Asian Para Games, and the Paralympics.

"We want the 2024 Peparnas to be a success in terms of athletic achievement, economic impact, and event management," he said. "Hopefully, the event will see the creation of new national and international records."

This year's Peparnas, taking place from October 6–13, features over 4,000 para-athletes from across Indonesia, competing for medals in 20 sports.

The event will include archery, athletics, badminton, boccia, chess, cycling, cerebral palsy football, table tennis, blind judo, weightlifting, shooting, swimming, taekwondo, sitting volleyball, tenpin bowling, wheelchair fencing, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair basketball, goalball, and e-sports.

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Translator: Michael S, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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