“You are not just representatives sent by the nation, but a reflection of Indonesia’s prowess on the global stage,” Thohir said during the Indonesian Contingent Inauguration for the SEA Games Thailand 2025 here on Friday.
Indonesia will send 1,021 male and female athletes to compete in the SEA Games from December 9-20, participating in 49 of the 51 sports contested at Southeast Asia’s largest multi-sport event.
The minister emphasized that athletes are striving not only for achievements but also to elevate the dignity and honor of the nation. He encouraged them to remember the sacrifices made, including those of their families, as motivation to excel.
Minister Thohir explained that this SEA Games serves as a benchmark for evaluating the performance of various sports disciplines, which is why Indonesia is sending its strongest athletes according to capacity.
“Moving forward, we aim to continue creating new milestones in Indonesian sports,” he added.
He also reaffirmed that his ministry is committed to developing sports in Indonesia. One strategic step is preparing 21 priority sports under the National Sports Grand Design (DBON).
Sports branches not yet classified as DBON priority but competing in this SEA Games also have the potential to be included in future DBON revisions, he pointed out.
“There is a promotion and relegation system for DBON priority sports, but now, everyone must take it seriously, how to revive, develop, and make our sports a source of national pride,” he said.
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Translator: Aloysius, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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