President Prabowo Praises SEA Games Athletes, Says Sports Reflect a Nation’s Strength
President Prabowo, on Thursday (01/08), underscores that sports reflect a nation’s success and strength.
President Prabowo Subianto emphasized that sports are a key measure of a nation’s success and strength.
The President stated that athletes representing Indonesia are symbols of national pride and the country’s resurgence on the global stage.
“In building a nation, in the struggle for national resurgence, sports reflect a country’s success. Athletes chosen to represent their nation serve as a symbol, a sign that their nation is strong,” said President Prabowo, at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Thursday (01/08), expressing appreciation to Indonesian athletes who achieved success at the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand.
President Prabowo stated that he personally followed several of the competitions, which were filled with tension and pride. He underscored that sporting achievements are not merely about winning, but also about national dignity.
“Indonesia is a great nation, Indonesia is a strong nation, Indonesia is a nation that will rise. You are the symbols of Indonesia’s national resurgence,” the President said.
The President also acknowledged the challenges faced by athletes, including in sports with judging systems that are perceived as less objective. He encouraged athletes to stay motivated and to continue improving their performance in the future.
“Do not be disheartened. What matters is that you have fought with all your strength. Now, the challenge is how you can further improve your performance in the future,” he said.
On the same occasion, President Prabowo also expressed appreciation to the heads of sports federations and all parties involved in the continuous development of athletes. According to him, proper fostering is the key to achieving success.
“I’d like to thank the heads of the sports federations who have nurtured athletes successfully. Without good development, achievements would not be possible. I believe you can feel how much the country values its sons and daughters who fight for the honor of the nation,” the President added.
Previously, Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir, in his report, stated that the Ministry and the Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI) continue to prepare for upcoming international sporting events. One of these is the ASEAN Para Games, scheduled from January 20 to 26, 2026.
“We are also preparing for the Asian Games, Sir, in Japan from September 19 to October 4, followed by the Asian Para Games from October 18 to 24, and then the Youth Olympics in Senegal starting on October 31,” Erick said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (FI/AW)
