Thohir, a businessman with extensive ties to the global sports world, was sworn in on Wednesday (September 17) to replace Dito Ariotedjo.
He currently serves as chairman of Indonesia’s football federation (PSSI) and has been Minister of State-Owned Enterprises since 2019.
Sports analyst Erwin Fitriansya said Thohir’s broad experience — ranging from basketball and football to leading the 2018 Asian Games — should make his transition to the ministry smooth.
However, Fitriansya cautioned that Thohir must give fair attention to all sports disciplines and carefully manage potential conflicts of interest.
“A key challenge will be balancing his duties at PSSI with his new responsibilities at the ministry,” Fitriansya noted.
Echoing this view, Lalu Hadrian Irfani, deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission X, expressed support for Thohir’s appointment and emphasized the importance of advancing the National Sports Grand Design (DBON) to boost Indonesia’s competitiveness on the international stage.
“Athlete development must be inclusive and not favor any particular sport,” Irfani said.
He also underscored the urgency of strengthening youth programs to prepare the next generation for Indonesia’s so-called ‘Golden Era.’
“We expect creativity, innovation, and bold initiatives from Minister Thohir, especially given the limited budget,” Irfani added.
Born in Jakarta, Thohir has earned a strong reputation in international sports. He previously owned Italy’s Inter Milan and US club DC United, and currently owns English club Oxford United.
He also served as president of Indonesia’s 2018 Asian Games Organizing Committee (INASGOC), widely credited for the event’s success.
In response to his appointment, FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Thohir on social media, highlighting his effective leadership at PSSI.
“My heartfelt congratulations to @erickthohir on being appointed as Indonesia’s new Minister of Youth and Sports,” Infantino wrote on Instagram on Thursday.
Praising Thohir’s achievements, Infantino said he would bring vision and capability to the role.
“Good luck, my dear friend, as you work to promote sports and introduce football to every young girl and boy in Indonesia,” he added.
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Translator: A Rauf AA, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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