Indonesia Rallying Support as 430 Athletes Begin Asian Games Campaign

The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo on Friday, September 18, 2026, held a welcoming ceremony for the Indonesian contingent in Nagoya, Japan as a show of support for athletes set to compete at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games from September 19 to October 5.

Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Nurmala Kartini Pandjaitan Sjahrir met with athletes and team officials during the event, which was intended to boost morale ahead of the competition.

"The journey to the Asian Games has not been easy. It has involved extensive training, discipline, sacrifices, and challenges. But it is also an opportunity to achieve the best results possible," Ambassador Nurmala said, as quoted by Antara.

She encouraged the athletes to compete with determination while upholding sportsmanship and representing Indonesia with pride.

"I hope our athletes compete with strong spirit, maintain sportsmanship, and perform to the best of their abilities with all the strengths and limitations they have, as well as the facilities available in a city like Nagoya," she said.

Indonesia's Chief de Mission, Todotua Pasaribu, said the gathering provided an opportunity to strengthen the commitment of all parties supporting the country's Asian Games campaign.

According to Todotua, competing at the Asian Games is not solely about athletic performance but also about carrying the nation's reputation on an international stage.

"All Indonesians, including those of us here, have high hopes. It is not only the athletes and officials who are involved. Everyone here can provide support so that our athletes can deliver their best for the Red and White," he concluded.

Indonesia has sent a contingent of 430 athletes to compete in 35 sports at the Games and is targeting four gold medals. The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games will run from September 19 to October 5, with Indonesian athletes aiming to build on years of preparation when they begin competition across multiple venues in Japan. ***