Youth and Sports Minister Praises Efforts to Support Indonesia's Asian Games Team

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia's Minister of Youth and Sports, Erick Thohir, praised efforts to ensure the best services for athletes. He made the remarks after the Indonesian Team's Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 inauguration in Jakarta on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

He praised Chef de Mission Todotua Pasaribu and the Indonesian Olympic Committee for supporting the Indonesian delegation. He said strong cooperation among stakeholders is essential for achieving better sporting results.

“I am pleased because, as I often say, we cannot achieve success without unity among all stakeholders. Today, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Indonesian Olympic Committee, the sports federations, and of course the Chef de Mission are managing everything properly and transparently, with clear targets,” Erick said.

The Minister said the Chef de Mission and Indonesian Olympic Committee Chairman Raja Sapta Oktohari had acted quickly. They addressed challenges affecting the Indonesian Team's preparations for Asia's largest multi-sport event.

He also highlighted recent natural disasters affecting Indonesia and Nagoya. He said the delegation's leadership had prepared alternative plans to ensure athletes receive maximum support.

“With many challenges, including the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau and now flooding in Nagoya, the Chef de Mission did not remain idle in seeking other plans. This proves that they care, because we must ensure maximum services for the athletes,” Erick said.

The Minister said he and the delegation's leadership had discussed response measures with Japan's Ambassador. He expressed confidence that Japan, like Indonesia, prioritizes public safety while hosting major international sporting events.

He further urged athletes to focus on their upcoming competitions, which begin on September 19. He also reminded them to maintain healthy eating habits, get enough rest, and stay focused on their medal targets.

The Indonesian Team consists of 430 athletes and 145 officials from 35 sports, supported by 78 personnel. Chef de Mission Todotua Pasaribu has coordinated with relevant parties to ensure the team's safe departure and adequate support in Japan.