Erick Thohir Targets Gold, Promises Rp3 Billion Bonus

RRI.CO.ID, Nagoya - Indonesian Youth and Sports Minister, Erick Thohir, targets gold medals for Indonesian athletes at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The government has also prepared a bonus of Rp3 billion for athletes who win gold medals.

He said the government continues to provide support and motivation to Indonesian athletes competing at the 2026 Asian Games. He praised athletes who have won bronze and silver medals, but stressed that Indonesia’s main target remains gold.

“Yeah, we are aiming for gold. And of course, we appreciate the athletes who have fought hard to win bronze and silver medals. That is extraordinary. But we are aiming for gold,” Erick said at the Aichi Prefectural Martial Arts Hall on Monday, September 21, 2026.

The Minister emphasized that the bonus is part of President Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to supporting Indonesian athletes and their achievements on the international stage. He said the government has ensured that Indonesian athletes who win gold medals at the 2026 Asian Games will receive Rp3 billion.

In addition to the bonus, the government is continuing to strengthen the national training program, known as Pelatnas, on a sustainable basis. The program covers short-, medium-, and long-term preparations for major international sporting events, including the SEA Games, Asian Games, and Olympic Games.

The government is also preparing a retirement security or pension scheme for high-achieving athletes, particularly gold medalists. The scheme is targeted for implementation within the next one to two years as part of efforts to secure athletes’ futures after their sporting careers.

“President Prabowo has been extraordinary. The government is present. The government has ensured that gold medalists will receive Rp3 billion. This is a substantial amount, and it demonstrates the government’s commitment,” he said.