JAKARTA - A new history was created in the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) sports world. The Chairman of the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) Center, Lieutenant General TNI Purn Marciano Norman, officially confirmed and appointed Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena as the Chairman of the KONI NTT for the 2026-2030 term of office at the Harper Hotel, Kupang, Sunday night (8/2/2026).
This inauguration is special because it is carried out on the same day as the Provincial Sports Conference (Musorprov). "This series, from morning to evening, is the first to be held in one day. This is very effective and efficient," said Marciano Norman.
Focus on the Olympic Games and the New Format of the XXII/2028 PON
As the Governor of NTT and also the Head of KONI NTT, Melki Laka Lena carries a great responsibility in the preparation of the PON XXII/2028 NTT-NTB. Marciano Norman emphasized that the upcoming PON will use a new format that is more international standard.
"If we want to improve the quality of achievements in the global arena, especially the Olympics, we must focus on Olympic sports, DBON, and international champions," explained Marciano.
Regarding facility constraints, Marciano revealed a collaborative solution. Sports branches that do not yet have venues in NTT will be held in Jakarta thanks to the support of the Governor of DKI Jakarta, Pramono Anung. However, he emphasized that the host status still belongs to NTT and NTB.
Ambitious Target: Break into the Top 10 National
After being inaugurated, Melki Laka Lena immediately set a high target for the NTT contingent. After being ranked 19th at the XXI PON/2024 Aceh-Sumut, he is optimistic that NTT will be able to break into the top 10 at the 2028 PON.
"We will make sure that it is in accordance with the target, we will reach the top 10 of the XXII/2028 PON NTT-NTB in a respectable way," said Melki.
To achieve this target, Melki set five successes:
Success in Management Success in Achievement Success in Administration Success in Economy Success in TourismThe NTT Provincial Government has prepared a budget of Rp. 250 billion for the implementation and hopes for synergy in the budget from the Regency/City Governments throughout NTT.
NTT Talent Athlete Warehouse
This optimism is not without reason. NTT has a track record of extraordinary athletes. At the 2025 Thailand SEA Games, athletes from NTT contributed medals through:
M. Zaki Zikrillah Prasong (Gold, Pencak Silat) Quisepina Olin (Silver, Women's Futsal National Team) Antonius Efrem Tuke Eduk (Bronze, Pencak Silat)NTT sports history is also colored by legends such as Johni Asadoma and Hermensen Balo in boxing, as well as Eduardus Nabunome whose national marathon record has lasted for three decades.
Before stepping into 2028, Marciano Norman reminded KONI NTT to immediately prepare athletes to face two breakthrough multi-events this year.
"I'm waiting for the NTT contingent at the 2026 Martial Arts PON in North Sulawesi and the 2026 Beach PON in Jakarta. This is an early proving ground for the new management," concluded Marciano.
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