Concerns About Papuan Security Denied At PON XX, Diving Athletes: It Turns Out That The Situation Is Far From What I Imagined

Illustration - diving athlete (Photo: PB PON Papua/Ronald Sandewa)

JAKARTA - Athletes' concerns about security conditions in Papua were refuted after they arrived and competed at the 2021 National Sports Week (PON) on Cenderawasih Earth.

One of them was felt by a diver from Lampung, Vania Carissa Wanta, who was worried about the conditions in Papua.

“When I first came to Papua, to be honest, I was worried about the conditions in Papua. However, after competing and experiencing the conditions in Papua, starting from the training process to the competition, it turns out that the situation in Papua is far from what I imagined," said Vania in the talk show "The Sweet Experience of the XX PON Contingent" which was held online, Thursday, as reported by Antara.

A similar confession was made by DKI Jakarta roller skate athlete Barijani Mahesa Putra. He admitted that he was not sure about the security conditions in Papua. But his doubts were answered that when he competed he considered the security conditions to be very under control.

Not only that, he was even impressed by the acceptance of the Papuan people towards the arrival of contingent guests from various regions.

"What I think is different from what I see on the pitch. The recipients of the Papuan people impressed me, they were very kind and enthusiastic to see us compete. Likewise, the implementation of the health protocol, is very strict and really guarded," he said.

The athletes also admitted that they did not expect Papua to have adequate infrastructure. Vania was amazed by the diving arena in Yos Sudarso Bay.

"It's not only the facilities and infrastructure that are qualified, but Papua has been great to be able to properly hold the biggest sporting event in Indonesia. Moreover, its natural resources are very beautiful. Especially other diving venues. For me, I have participated in six PON, a diving arena in Papua. this (Yos Sudarso Bay) is the best," said Vania.

The athletes also hope that the competition arena and the existing infrastructure can be maintained and utilized after the PON.

"Everything must continue to be used so that it is maintained. This is for the advancement of Papuan sports in particular and Indonesia," said Barijani.