“Never question my commitment to sports,” Thohir told reporters after the ministry’s handover ceremony in Jakarta.
Thohir, who continues to lead the PSSI, dismissed worries that football would dominate under his watch.
He cited his track record in multiple sports bodies, including stints as head of the Indonesian Basketball Association, the Olympic Committee, and the 2018 Asian Games Organizing Committee.
He noted that his current position with FIFA reflects international trust in his leadership, but insisted his ministry’s focus will be balanced across all sports.
Related news: Erick Thohir appointed Indonesia’s new Youth and Sports Minister
“My track record is clear. Deputy Minister Taufik Hidayat and I have fought hard for sports. We will continue to do so,” he said.
Thohir said he aims to collaborate rather than command, emphasizing that national sports goals must be shared, not personal.
To ensure long-term consistency, he proposed creating a unified roadmap for youth and sports development through 2045.
He said frequent changes in leadership often lead to shifting priorities, disrupting progress.
“Every time we get a new minister, the roadmap changes. It’s time we agreed on one national plan so transitions don’t derail progress,” he said.
Several former ministers attended the event, including Adhyaksa Dault (2004-2009), Andi Alfian Mallarangen (2009-2012), Agung Laksono (2012-2013), Roy Suryo (2013-2014), Zainudin Amali (2019-2023), and Dito Ariotedjo (2023-2025).
Related news: FIFA chief congratulates Erick Thohir on sports minister post
Translator: Aloysius, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
