“We are very ambitious about Indonesian fencing,” said Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo on Sunday, during the final day of the 2025 Asian Fencing Championships in Nusa Dua, Badung District, Bali.
According to Dito, the partnership was formalized during President Prabowo Subianto’s recent state visit to Russia, a visit on which he accompanied the President. “This collaboration is a concrete outcome from the trip,” he said.
He noted that the cooperation goes beyond a memorandum of understanding and includes actionable programs ready for immediate implementation.
The government has also instructed the Indonesian Fencing Federation (PB IKASI) to revitalize the sport, including through increased participation in international competitions.
Indonesia, Dito added, has great potential to develop fencing through junior-level programs and early talent scouting, which have already begun reaching students via school extracurricular activities.
“We’ve given directions to ensure that fencing thrives and develops programs with an eye toward the Olympics,” he said.
One key step is Indonesia’s hosting of the 2025 Asian Fencing Championships—the first time in 20 years that the event has taken place in the country.
Although none of the 25 Indonesian fencers reached the final rounds or won medals, the minister praised their progress and performance.
“Our athletes didn’t make the podium, but I saw clear improvement,” he remarked.
Indonesia is also scheduled to host the 2026 Asian Junior and Cadet Fencing Championships in Jakarta in February next year. The event is expected to provide valuable competition experience and exposure for young athletes.
Further development plans, as outlined by PB IKASI, include training programs for local coaches, national coach selection, and possibly hiring foreign trainers to raise performance standards.
“The main goal is to bring Indonesia back to the core of Olympic traditions, where fencing has always been a foundational sport,” Dito stated.
Related news: Govt welcomes BWF's offer to host Sudirman, Thomas & Uber Cups
Related news: BRICS Sports Group strengthens Indonesia's diplomacy: Sports Minister
Translator: Sewa, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Arie Novarina
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
