Youth Initiative Gains Diplomatic Backing for Indonesian-American Games 2026
- 14 Mar 2026 08:47 WIB
- Voice of Indonesia
RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Youth-led initiative to unite Indonesian diaspora through sports is gaining strong diplomatic support. The Indonesian - American Games (IAG) 2026, scheduled for June 19–21 in Chicago, has drawn endorsement from Indonesian Ambassador to the United States, Dwisuryo Indroyono Soesilo.
The ambassador praised the vision of Davon Arjunaidi, the young diaspora member behind the event, which is set to bring together hundreds of participants across eight sports.
“At his age, I also had the same energy to start positive initiatives. This is a commendable effort, and I personally support the organization of the Indonesian - American Games 2026,” Dwisuryo said in an official statement released in Jakarta on Friday, March 13, 2026, as quoted by Antara.
Similar backing came from Consul General Trisari Dyah Pramita in Chicago, who emphasized the event’s role in strengthening community networks and national identity.
“We welcome this initiative by young Indonesians. We will coordinate with the Indonesian Diaspora Network USA and hold a special meeting with the organizers to clarify technical aspects of the Games,” she noted.
For Davon, the support from Indonesian representatives in the U.S. has been a major boost for the organizing team. He stressed that IAG 2026 is more than just a sports competition; it is also a movement to connect Indonesian diaspora communities across American cities.
“We want this to be a space for friendship, collaboration, and pride as Indonesians. The encouragement from the Ambassador, the Embassy, and the Consulate General gives us tremendous motivation,” Davon said.
The initiative reflects how youth-driven diaspora efforts are receiving serious attention from the state. Organizers hope the Indonesian - American Games will evolve into an annual tradition, fostering unity and camaraderie among Indonesians in the United States. ***