RRI.CO.ID, Paser - The International Table Tennis Championship (ITTC) 2026 has turned Paser Regency, East Kalimantan, into a hub of international sporting activity, with athletes from seven countries, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, India, and Cambodia, competing from July 20 to 26 at the Sadurengas Sports Hall.

Organized by the Indonesian Table Tennis Association (PTMSI) Paser and supported by the local administration, the tournament is not only about competition but also about positioning Paser as a destination for sport tourism. Regent Fahmi Fadli emphasized that hosting ITTC boosts the local economy through hotel occupancy, restaurant sales, and the growth of MSMEs.

“This international event strengthens our sport tourism program and directly benefits the community,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

The championship features multiple categories, including mixed doubles, men’s and women’s singles, U-13, U-16, U-18 singles, and veteran doubles 100+. For local athletes, the ITTC serves as valuable preparation ahead of the East Kalimantan Provincial Sports Week (Porprov VIII) in November, offering exposure to international competition and discipline.

Among the notable participants are Japan’s Kotomi Omoda, South Korea’s Oh Minseo, the Philippines’ John Russel Misal, and India’s Aarti Caudhary, alongside Indonesian players who have represented the nation at the SEA Games and Asian Games. Their presence elevates the level of play and provides local athletes with firsthand experience against seasoned international opponents.

By hosting ITTC 2026, Paser demonstrates how regional initiatives can combine athletic development with economic impact, strengthening both community pride and international recognition. ***