IDNAround – Newly installed Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo has said that he will prioritize preparations for the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia and monitor Indonesia’s readiness for hosting international sports events.
The international sports events include the 2023 International Basketball Federation (FIBA) World Cup and the 2023 Association National Olympic Committee (ANOC) World Beach Games (AWBG).
“In this limited time or less than a month from the SEA Games, we will focus on the contingent preparation. In the near future, we also have many international events such as the FIBA World Cup and AWBG,” the minister said in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Ariotedjo’s focus is in line with the direction given to him by President Joko Widodo and Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Muhadjir Effendy, on completing the preparations for the Cambodian SEA Games.
When asked about clarity regarding Indonesia’s participation in the biggest sporting event in Southeast Asia, in terms of the number of athletes departing and the sports involved, the minister said there will be certainty by this week since the SEA Games are scheduled to take place from May 5 to 17, or in 32 days.
“By God’s willing, we will determine the number of contingents this week. Just wait for it. I had just been inaugurated. Please give us time to adjust and ensure the best and most comprehensive preparation for our athletes,” he added.
The 2023 SEA Games will take place in Cambodia for the first time, with 44 sports with 632 events.
In the total sports contested, the host has only included 21 Olympic branches. The rest are more traditional and non-Olympic sports.
These could potentially cost Indonesia 39 gold medals in branches ranging from archery, shooting, to chess.
Related News: Jokowi Wants Indonesia-UAE CEPA to Be Ratified by End-2023