Erick Thohir Encourages Collaboration to Develop Sportainment Concept

RRI.CO.ID, Malang — Indonesia's Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Indonesia, Erick Thohir, supported the sportainment concept, which combines sports and entertainment, as showcased at the Mbois 11 Festival at Gajayana Stadium in Malang City on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

She said the concept could serve as a platform for collaboration among various stakeholders while also boosting economic activity through sports and entertainment events. "As I said earlier, I support everyone working together. The city government, communities, and sports organizations," Erick said while visiting the Mbois 11 Festival. Several sports were featured in the festival, including amateur boxing, jemparingan traditional archery, and e-sports.

According to the Minister, implementing the sportainment concept requires the involvement of various parties, not only local governments, but also communities and sports organizations such as the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) and the Indonesian Community Sports Committee (KORMI).

He said sports should not simply be viewed as an activity that requires spending, but also as an investment that can contribute to economic growth. Erick cited sports events as an example, noting that they can generate economic transactions through ticket sales, consumer spending, and tax revenues.

"Sports are no longer just about costs. The perception has always been that sports are an expense, but that is wrong. Sports are an investment that creates economic activity," he stressed.

In addition to their economic impact, Erick said sports are also an investment in health. He considered this particularly important given Indonesia's large young population.

He noted that around 125 million Indonesians are under the age of 30. According to him, this population will eventually enter old age and therefore needs to be prepared in terms of health.

"That number will eventually enter old age and we need to think about healthcare financing. That's why sports are an investment in our future health," he said.

Furthermore, Erick said sports have another equally important dimension, namely building national pride through athletes' achievements. According to him, the raising of the Red and White flag at international competitions reflects the nation's identity and pride.

"So, sports are not a cost, but an investment that can make an extraordinary contribution to the nation," Erick said.