Jakarta, IO – The Indonesian Aquatics Federation and the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) are collaborating as part of a strengthening of the country’s swimmer development system.
The “Emerging” theme, which emphasizes the development of young Indonesian athletes as the next generation of national swimmers, will feature competitions in four age groups: 11-13, 14-15, and 16 and above, with a total of 26 events.
“This championship is quite important for developing the Indonesian swimming ecosystem. In countries with advanced swimming, short courses like this have been around for a long time,” said Committee Chair Yori Hehanusa at a press conference at the Gelora Bung Karno Aquatic Stadium in Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday, May 11.
More than 700 swimmers are estimated to participate in this championship. “We already have a database and have sent invitations to 37 provinces,” Yori said.
KONI Chairman, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Marciano Norman, attended the championship launch and expressed KONI’s support for the development of young athletes in Indonesia.
He stated that healthy and sustainable competition is a crucial element in the development of national sports.
“KONI (Indonesian National Sports Committee) plays a role in supporting the creation of a healthy and sustainable competition ecosystem for young Indonesian athletes. Through its support for the Indonesia Short Course Emerging Series, KONI encourages collaboration between federations, organizers, and the industry sector to strengthen youth sports development and elevate the quality and achievements of national sports to the international level,” said Marciano.
The Indonesia Short Course Emerging Series also received support from the Chandra Asri Group, along with Barito Pacific and Barito Renewables. The involvement of the private sector is considered part of a cross-sector collaboration to strengthen the development of competitive sports in Indonesia.
Suryandi, Director of Human Resources and Corporate Relations at Chandra Asri Group, explained that the company’s participation aims to create opportunities for young Indonesian athletes to develop through competitions held with professional standards.
“We see the great potential of young Indonesian athletes, so by providing a competitive space, we hope to create a supportive ecosystem for optimal athlete development,” he said.
“Through this collaboration with KONI and the Indonesian Aquatics Federation, the company hopes to strengthen the national swimming athlete development ecosystem through a structured, systematic, and sustainable approach, from an early age to achieving national and international success,” he added.
Edi Rivai, Director of Legal, External Relations, and Circular Economy at Chandra Asri, added that his company will also assist with sustainability efforts, such as mitigating the impact of waste, ensuring clean water, and using energy that reduces emissions.
Harlin E. Raharjo, Chairman of the Indonesian Aquatics Federation, welcomed the championship. “Thank you for the attention from KONI and the support from Chandra Asri, along with Barito Pacific and Barito Renewables. We have developed a roadmap for the 2032 Olympics, from early childhood development to long-term athlete development, in line with sustainability and continuous development,” said Herlin. Furthermore, Akuatik Indonesia is promoting the “Let’s Swim” program and hopes to incorporate this sport into the education curriculum. (rp)