RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Olympic Committee (NOC Indonesia) Chairman Raja Sapta Oktohari received a black belt and a diamond pin from the International Judo Federation (IJF) during the Judo Gala held alongside the Paris Grand Slam 2026, marking international recognition of Indonesia’s sports diplomacy efforts.

“I thank IJF President Marius Vizer for this honor. For me, this award is too great. It is not only for me personally, but for my country, Indonesia,” he said after the ceremony, in an official statement from NOC Indonesia released in Jakarta on Monday, February 9, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

In judo, the black belt represents one of the highest symbols of achievement, while the diamond pin is awarded to individuals regarded as part of the IJF’s inner circle, reflecting a high level of trust and influence in supporting the global development of the sport.

He said the award serves as proof that Indonesia’s sports diplomacy has gained international legitimacy. He stressed that Indonesia should not limit itself to domestic success but must actively and consistently engage in global communication and cooperation.

Over the past several years, NOC Indonesia has strengthened relations with various international sports federations as well as regional organizations such as the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and other regional bodies.

“Initiative, proactive communication, and consistency in international forums are part of our strategy to build Indonesia’s position on the global stage,” he said, adding that these efforts are part of a broader agenda to improve national sports governance, with the aim of enhancing Indonesia’s competitiveness internationally.

Through stronger international networks, Indonesia is not only expanding opportunities for collaboration but also facilitating knowledge exchange, improving governance standards, increasing transparency, and developing sports education programs.

“We want to demonstrate that Indonesia belongs to the international class. Sports diplomacy is not merely about attending global forums, but also about building concrete relationships, generating trust, and opening long-term cooperation opportunities,” he explained.

He also encouraged national sports federations to be more active in engaging with their international counterparts, noting that sustained collaboration would strengthen Indonesia’s position as a strategic partner within the global sports ecosystem.

Meanwhile, IJF President Marius Vizer said Oktohari has shown strong commitment to advancing judo not only in Indonesia but also across Southeast Asia and Asia.

“The black belt is one of the highest achievements and the most important symbol in judo. It is awarded to someone who has dedicated himself to supporting the long-term development of judo,” Marius Vizer said.

He expressed hope for continued cooperation in building a strong judo federation in Indonesia, including collaboration on education and judo development programs in schools. ***