Rumah Indonesia at Asian Games Serves as Sports and Cultural Diplomacy Hub

RRI.CO.ID, Nagoya - Indonesian Youth and Sports Minister, Erick Thohir, has emphasized that Rumah Indonesia at the 2026 Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya serves not only as a support center for the Indonesian delegation, but also as a hub for sports and cultural diplomacy in Japan.

He said Rumah Indonesia was initially established to meet the needs of Indonesian athletes, including providing support for those facing difficulties during the competition. It also provides a space where athletes can enjoy the atmosphere and taste Indonesian cuisine while in Japan.

“Initially, we discussed how Rumah Indonesia could serve as a place to meet the athletes’ needs, whether they were facing problems, needed support, or simply missed Indonesian food. But as it developed, Rumah Indonesia also became part of sports diplomacy,” Erick said during the inauguration of Rumah Indonesia at Ark Rock Sakae, Nagoya, on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

According to him, sports diplomacy is important for strengthening people-to-people relations and building Indonesia’s network with international sports federations, including the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

“It is impossible for our sports to advance without building strong relationships with sports federations around the world. Going forward, we also hope this can become part of our diplomatic culture, showcasing Indonesia’s natural beauty and tourism,” he said.

During the inauguration, Erick also expressed his appreciation to all parties supporting Rumah Indonesia, including sponsors, athletes, coaches, and sports officials. He said collaboration among various stakeholders was important in strengthening Indonesia’s presence throughout the 2026 Asian Games.

The inauguration was attended by Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Nurmala Kartini Pandjaitan, Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI) Chairman Raja Sapta Oktohari, and Chef de Mission (CdM) of the Indonesian Team for the 2026 Asian Games Todotua Pasaribu.

Indonesian Ambassador to Japan, Nurmala Kartini Pandjaitan expressed hope that the Indonesian delegation would deliver its best performances and achieve strong results at the 2026 Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya.

“We are a great nation. Wherever we are, we can adapt. We are used to overcoming challenges. Despite all the obstacles, hopefully nothing will deter us from moving forward, representing Indonesia, and competing to win,” she said.