RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia's hosting of the 2026 Asian Boxing U19 & U23 Championships provides the country with an opportunity to strengthen its role as a regional sporting hub while giving its young boxers valuable international experience on the road to the Olympic Games.

The statment was made by Asian Boxing President Pichai Chunhavajira on Sunday, July 5, 2026, during the opening ceremony of the event at Basket Hall Senayan, Jakarta.

Pichai described the continental championships as an important milestone for Asia's rising boxing talents aiming to compete at the 2028 Olympic Games. "Los Angeles 2028 may seem a long way off, but in the Olympic world, that journey starts now," he said, as quoted by Antara.

He emphasized that international competition is essential for athletes to gain experience, making the Jakarta event a key opportunity for young male and female boxers across Asia to take another step toward the world's biggest multi-sport event.

Pichai said the Asian Boxing Championships form part of a long-term development pathway designed to help talented Asian boxers progress from youth champions to world-class Olympic athletes.

"We are committed to creating opportunities for our athletes to grow, compete, and believe that their Olympic dreams can become reality," he said.

He also encouraged the hundreds of athletes from more than 20 countries competing in the tournament to fight with courage, determination, and confidence while staying focused on their long-term ambitions.

"The future of Asian boxing is standing in this ring today, and I firmly believe that many of you will one day inspire the world on the Olympic stage," he added.

The opening ceremony was attended by Indonesian Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir, Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan, Indonesian Boxing Association (Perbati) Chairman Ray Zulham Farras Nugraha, along with tournament officials, international delegates, athletes, and team officials. ***