“We are discussing with the Finance Minister whether the state can provide a facility allowing our athletes who excel abroad to bring home their prize money without being taxed,” Thohir told reporters here on Tuesday.
He said he wants Indonesian athletes who earn rewards for international achievements to fully enjoy the results of their hard work.
He mentioned men’s singles shuttler Jonatan Christie, who has received tens of thousands of US dollars, and tennis player Janice Tjen, who has earned hundreds of thousands.
The minister expects athletes to be able to bring their prize money home without tax deductions, ensuring they do not feel constrained after representing Indonesia on the global stage.
“For example, if footballer Rizky Ridho wins the FIFA Puskás Award and earns a monetary prize, we will push for it not to be taxed,” he said.
Thohir explained that prize money received abroad has already been taxed in the host country, so it should not be taxed again in Indonesia.
“There should be no double tax, because they are already taxed where they win,” he said.
He stressed the importance of granting tax exemptions to ensure athletes can enjoy a decent life. He said he does not want the perception that successful athletes cannot be prosperous, which might discourage parents from supporting their children’s sporting careers.
“Athletes are the future. The government must ensure they can develop their careers without being constrained by regulations that become counterproductive to their achievements,” he said.
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Translator: Aloysius, Kenzu
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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