RRI.CO.ID, Bekasi — Indonesia's Minister of Youth and Sports, Erick Thohir, said community sports tournaments serve not only as competitive events but also as drivers of local economic growth and platforms for developing future national athletes.

He made the remarks while opening the Arie One Cup II Women's Open Volleyball Tournament at the RW 013 Volleyball Court in Villa Mahkota Indah, Bekasi, West Java, on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

"This is an extraordinary event. I believe activities like this are very important because they bring many benefits to the community. Events like this stimulate micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and the local economy. People buy food, drinks, and other necessities. This deserves appreciation because it has become a new source of economic growth," Erick said.

The tournament officially opened with a ceremonial volleyball serve by Erick, House of Representatives Commission VI member Kawendra Lukistian, Indonesian national volleyball player Yolla Yuliana, and several other officials.

According to the Minister, sporting events provide benefits beyond competition by promoting healthier lifestyles and serving as an important pathway for nurturing talented athletes.

He also highlighted the presence of national volleyball star Yolla Yuliana, describing her as a role model for young players aspiring to represent Indonesia on the international stage.

"Yolla Yuliana is one of our sporting heroes. I hope all of you will become the sporting heroes of the future, just like Yolla. Indonesia's Red and White flag can fly proudly on the international stage not only during presidential state visits, but also through the achievements of Indonesian athletes," he said.

Erick added that sporting events should also contribute to character development among young people while encouraging greater public participation in sports.

"I hope events like this help build character, and I also hope sports facilities here continue to improve so that more sporting events can be held and more people are encouraged to stay active," he said.

The Arie One Cup II Women's Open Volleyball Tournament is being held from July 25–26, 2026, featuring 12 teams, including Arieone VC, Najwa VC, Vollos Serenite, Matador, BPI, Garasi 58, Ratu Nusantara, Pinky, Patriot, Denso, Baramuda Indonesia Ciakar, and PPOP Jakarta. The participating clubs are competing for a total prize pool of Rp25 million.