Government Renovates 18 Venues in Aceh to Ensure Success of PON XXI

Jakarta, VIVA – The upcoming National Sports Week (PON) XXI Aceh-Sumut 2024 is not just Indonesia's largest sporting event; it also marks a historic milestone in the nation's sports development and a long-term investment in regional growth, particularly for Aceh and North Sumatra.

The Deputy for Sports Achievement Improvement at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Surono, emphasized that both central and regional governments have committed significant funds to build and renovate various sports venues and facilities.

"One clear example of the government's commitment is the renovation of 18 venues in Aceh. This effort is not just to ensure the success of PON XXI, but also to guarantee that the infrastructure built can be used for various future sports activities," Surono stated during the Merdeka Forum 9 (FMB9) themed "PON XXI Aceh-Sumut: Boosting Athletes' Achievements Amid Sharia Law" on Wednesday.

Surono further explained that these facilities are expected to be used continuously for athlete development and to host competitions at both national and international levels.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports has allocated a substantial budget, including IDR 138 billion for equipment in Aceh and IDR 101 billion in North Sumatra.

Additionally, IDR 74 billion in North Sumatra and IDR 72 billion in Aceh have been earmarked for match equipment, including referees and judges.

Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Dr. Suwarno, Chairman of the Supervisory and Steering Committee for PON XXI Aceh-Sumut, highlighted the unique challenges of this PON, which involves 10 districts/cities in each province.

"This certainly requires more complex and intensive coordination," he noted. Aceh is reportedly 95% ready to host the event, with all necessary infrastructure and support systems in place.