RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia is reinforcing its taekwondo development program through collaboration between the Indonesian Taekwondo (TI) and the Indonesian Military (TNI), showcased at the 8th Asian Taekwondo Indonesia Open Championships 2026, August 1-5, at Tennis Indoor Senayan, Jakarta.

TI Chairman Lt. Gen. Richard Tampubolon said the partnership aims not only to ensure smooth organization of the international tournament but also to build a sustainable ecosystem that produces athletes capable of reaching the Olympic stage.

“This championship is part of the celebration of TNI’s 81st anniversary. Taekwondo is a martial art embraced by Indonesia’s youth,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

The World Taekwondo G2‑rated event features 478 athletes from 36 countries and serves as a key opportunity to collect ranking points for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Poomsae competitions take place August 1–2, followed by kyorugi matches from August 3–5, with the opening ceremony scheduled for August 2.

Richard emphasized that TNI’s support extends beyond event logistics, offering accomplished athletes with pathways to join the military as officers.

Among them are SEA Games 2025 gold medalist Muhammad Alfi Kusuma (First Lieutenant), Asian Championships 2023 winner Ni Kadek Heni Prikasih (Second Lieutenant), and fellow taekwondo standout Muhammad Rizal (Second Lieutenant).

He stressed that the presence of these athletes demonstrates how collaboration between sports federations and the military ensures both athlete development and career continuity. “This is proof of TNI’s commitment to building Indonesia’s sporting achievements,” Richard said. ***