When Many Countries Give Up, Indonesia Is Praised For Hosting ASEAN Para Games

Closing of the ASEAN Para Games XI 2022 at Manahan Stadium, Surakarta City (Photo: BPMI Setpres/Laily Rachev)

JAKARTA - The 2022 ASEAN Para Games (APG) in Solo has been completed. Indonesia has been praised for being successful in holding sporting events for people with disabilities, even though the preparations were quite short.

Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo explained that the successful implementation of the 2022 ASEAN Para Games is the Indonesian government's courage in making decisions. This courage will then be followed by many other countries to hold international events.

"The secretary general of the organization (ASEAN Para Sport Federation) spoke with me, many countries will learn from Indonesia's courage. Because in a short time, with relatively good management. We are also proud to convey that," said Ganjar in a statement from the provincial government, Monday, August 8.

Ganjar explained, the success of holding the 2022 ASEAN Para Games proves that Indonesia is able to hold international events with short preparations. Especially after several countries gave up hosting.

“It was a very short time, one month, because several countries were throwing towels at that time, including Vietnam. We have taken over this, we have proven that we are capable," he said.

The success as an organizer was also followed by the classy nicks of Indonesian sports athletes. The Indonesian contingent managed to collect 175 gold, 144 silver, and 106 bronze, with a total of 425 medals, and was entitled to the overall title of the ASEAN Para Games XI overall champion.

"The result is top, we are the overall champion," said Ganjar.

Ganjar added, after these athletes get achievements, then the next thing to think about is concern about the future. Including mentoring and coaching. Athletes who get achievements will get special attention from the local government.

“The homebase is in Solo, right? Then our attention to the athlete is needed. Yes, the assistance, I think the next thing is their future, so those who get medals are entitled to develop their future. It's not just an achievement, but also a matter of their life. That's what the government should think about," he said.

Vietnam was previously appointed as the host for this year's event. However, a few months before the event was held, they stated that they could not and resigned as hosts. Indonesia then took over the responsibility.