Following a new partnership between the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration, the initiative aims to foster grassroots talent and expand access to competitive sports across rural communities nationwide, with implementation beginning this year and gradual expansion planned through 2029.
Sports Minister Erick Thohir and Villages Minister Yandri Susanto formalized the collaboration during a meeting in Jakarta on Tuesday.
“One of the proposals for which he [Susanto] sought our support is to roll out village-level football and esports leagues this year,” Thohir told reporters after the meeting.
“Of course, we aim to broaden the scope of the leagues, bringing them to all regions across Indonesia, not just one province.”
Thohir, who also chairs the Indonesian Football Federation (PSSI), emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader effort to develop young talent from the village level.
“Villages play a crucial role in the country’s efforts to produce quality youngsters,” Thohir said.
The minister expressed determination to nurture loyal, resilient, and patriotic youth capable of excelling internationally and contributing positively to society amid global challenges.
Villages Minister Susanto echoed Thohir's statement, describing the partnership as a key step toward realizing village-based national development in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s directives.
He expressed confidence that the joint sports and youth initiatives would help alleviate poverty and promote equitable economic growth across Indonesia.
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Translator: Aloysius L, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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