Luhut: Long-Term National Training Program Key to Producing World-Class Athletes

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Chairman of the Indonesian Athletics Association (PB PASI) Luhut Binsar Panjaitan, welcomed President Prabowo Subianto's directive on implementing a long-term national training camp and a multi-year funding scheme for competitive sports. In a written statement received in Jakarta on Monday, June 22, 2026, Luhut described the policy as a strategic step to strengthen the foundation of Indonesia's sports development in a sustainable manner.

According to him, long-term training programs and multi-year budget support would provide sports federations with greater flexibility to formulate athlete development roadmaps that are measurable, well-planned, and continuous.

"Sporting excellence cannot be built overnight. World champions are not created in a single competitive season. It takes years of consistent and sustainable development," he said.

The support came following a meeting between Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir and President Prabowo in Hambalang on Friday, June 19, 2026, which discussed preparations for various international multi-sport events through long-term planning, sustainable funding support, and the strengthening of grassroots development through the National Sports Academy.

Luhut said the new scheme being promoted by the government could mark a turning point for the revival of national sports by introducing governance that is more effective, professional, modern, and focused on long-term achievements. "For us at PASI, this is good news that we have long awaited. So far, athletes and federations have often faced limitations due to administrative regulations and annual planning cycles," he said.

He added that the policy demonstrates the government's seriousness in building a robust and future-oriented national sports system. "The President's strategic move shows that the government is not merely focused on winning medals at a single event, but also on building a strong foundation for the future of Indonesian sports," he said.

Beyond government support, Luhut emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration, including with the business community, to expand opportunities for athletes to gain international competition experience and improve their exposure at the global level.

According to him, such synergy is essential to ensure that Indonesian athletes possess the quality and competitiveness needed to compete internationally. "Such support provides greater opportunities for athletes to enhance their quality and competitive experience on the international stage and ensures that Team Indonesia remains ready and competitive," Luhut said.