Indonesia’s Bold Plan for Paris 2024 Olympics

Jakarta, July 15 2024 – The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora), is making swift moves to prepare athletes for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

According to Surono, the Deputy for Sports Achievement Improvement at Kemenpora, the ministry began mapping out sports disciplines with medal potential immediately after the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

"We have identified sports with medal potential and are increasing the number of disciplines with promise," Surono stated during the Merdeka Barat 9 Forum (FMB9) dialogue on Monday, July 15, themed 'Paris 2024 Olympics, Ready to Win, Ready to Compete'.

One of Kemenpora’s key strategies is to provide year-round National Training Centers (Pelatnas) for disciplines and athletes demonstrating potential. This initiative started post-Tokyo Olympics, aiming for participation in the SEA Games and Asian Games.

Surono emphasized the importance of international competition, as Olympic qualification now relies on points and rankings earned through global events. "Achievement is a process. Kemenpora will systematically continue to improve Indonesian athletes' performance," he asserted.

Kemenpora's systematic efforts have borne fruit, with 29 athletes from 12 disciplines qualifying for Paris 2024, setting a new record for Indonesia. Moving forward, the ministry trusts sports federations to manage Pelatnas, focusing on disciplines with Olympic potential.

"Kemenpora collaborates with experts and the national sports federations (PB) to map out which disciplines and events have the best chances to qualify for the Olympics," Surono explained.

Despite budget constraints, Kemenpora prioritizes the development of top athletes, allocating funds for long-term training starting from youth levels, though current Pelatnas focuses on quota rather than age groups.

"Development is hindered by the lack of competitions reaching younger age groups," Surono admitted. To address this, Kemenpora promotes long-term Pelatnas every four years.

The Indonesian team’s preparations for Paris 2024 are also advancing. Wijaya Noeradi, Secretary-General of the Indonesian Olympic Committee (NOC Indonesia), noted that several athletes have already begun Pelatnas in Europe to adapt to local weather and conditions.

Sports like gymnastics, shooting, archery, badminton, and cycling have been in Paris since mid-June. "The challenge isn't just the weather, but also the traffic system," Noeradi remarked, highlighting the logistical complexities.

To maximize their performance, NOC Indonesia ensures athletes receive top-notch facilities, including dedicated staff for logistical and communication support.

Noeradi also commended Indonesian officials, including six International Technical Officials (ITO) and referees, assigned to the Paris 2024 Olympics in sports like diving, badminton, shooting, boxing, and tennis. "Their presence underscores the quality of Indonesian officiating on the international stage," he said.

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20 November 2024