“Of course, the Ministry of Youth and Sports will continue improving budget efficiency so that spending can be directed appropriately. That is what we are doing at the moment,” Erick said after attending the 2026 Members Meeting of the Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI) in Jakarta on Saturday.
The budget efficiency measures introduced by the ministry have recently drawn public attention after affecting several programs including the cancellation of the 2026 National Student Sports Week pre-event (Pra Popnas).
In addition, the 2026 National Center for Outstanding Sports Development Program (SPOBNAS) has also been temporarily suspended to align with current fiscal priorities.
However Erick assured that flagship programs including athlete preparations for multi-sport events such as the 2026 Asian Games would continue as planned.
He said he had received input from the Indonesian Olympic Committee and sports federations regarding funding challenges in maintaining achievements amid the impact of efficiency measures.
The minister also stressed that despite budget tightening, the commitment of President Prabowo Subianto toward sports development should not be questioned.
“He is a sports figure and part of the national sports community. I myself am also part of the national sports community,” Erick said.
Erick further explained that despite the efficiency measures the ministry has continued to submit requests to the Finance Ministry in line with the directives of the president.
These requests aim to maintain sustainable national training camp programs that are vital for the success of Indonesian athletes on the international stage.
According to him the training camps are being organized in stages including short-term preparations for the 2026 Asian Games and medium-term programs for the 2027 Southeast Asian Games.
He also noted that longer-term preparations for the 2028 Olympics remain a key part of the restructuring efforts currently underway with the Finance Ministry.
“This is what we are currently restructuring together with the Finance Ministry. I hope that cabinet members who are also involved in leading sports federations can help communicate with other cabinet members,” he said.
Erick expressed optimism that many officials within the cabinet who are involved in sports could help strengthen understanding of the national training programs.
These programs are envisioned by the president to ensure that the sports sector remains competitive despite the necessary budget adjustments.
Related news: RI calls ASEAN sports ministers to develop world-class sports event
Related news: Ministries collaborate to bolster sports development in universities
Translator: Aloysius, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Arie Novarina
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
