Officially, President Jokowi Closes ASEAN Para Games XI

Indonesian President Joko Widodo (standing left) officially closed the 2022 ASEAN Para Games XI at Manahan Stadium, Surakarta, Central Java, Saturday, August 6.

JAKARTA - Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) officially closed the 2022 ASEAN Para Games at the Manahan Stadium, Surakarta, Central Java, Saturday night.

"By giving thanks to Allah SWT, Alhamdulillahirabbil 'alamin, I declare the 11th ASEAN Para Games in 2022 to be closed tonight. See you at the 12th ASEAN Para Games in 2023 in Cambodia," said President Jokowi, as quoted from Live broadcasts on the Presidential Secretariat's Youtube channel followed from Jakarta.

Jokowi said that Indonesia was very proud to be the host of the 2022 ASEAN Para Games. He expressed his gratitude to 1,248 athletes from ASEAN countries who had participated.

"Thank you for giving the message that limitations and difficulties are not obstacles. With commitment and hard work, people with disabilities are able to score a million achievements," he said.

The solidarity between ASEAN nations shown by the athletes, said Jokowi, would be a great strength for the region and for people with disabilities.

"We continue to support initiatives from people with disabilities. We will succeed in next year's ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia," the President said as reported by Antara.

The Head of State also expressed his gratitude to all delegates from all countries, especially the athletes who have shown their sportsmanship and sense of brotherhood.

"Thanks to APSF (ASEAN Para Sports Federation), International Sports Federations. NPC National Paralympic Committees, and the 11th Asean Para Games National Committee, I also thank the Governor of Central Java, Mayor of Surakarta and the people of Solo and Solo Raya. who has been a very friendly host," Jokowi said.

Meanwhile, Indonesia has been confirmed to be the overall champion of the 2022 ASEAN Para Games with 177 gold, 141 silver and 110 bronze medals.

This year is the third time that Indonesia has become the overall champion of the ASEAN Para Games after 2014 in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, and 2017 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.