Central Gov’t Hands Over Decree for Aceh, N. Sumatra to Co-Host 21st PON
The handing over of Decree on the Appointment of Aceh and North Sumatra Provinces as Host of the 21st National Sports Week (PON) in 2024, Thursday (19/11), in Jakarta. (Photo by: PR of Ministry of Youth and Sports)
On Thursday (19/11), Minister of Youth and Sports Zainudin Amali handed over Decree Number 71 of 2020 on the Appointment of Aceh and North Sumatra Provinces as Host of the 21st multi-sport event, National Sports Week (PON) in 2024.
The decree was received by the National Sports Council (KONI) Chairman Marciano Norman who then handed it over to representatives of the two provinces.
“The event will be held in two provinces. So, we had to revise Government Regulation Number 17/2007. Thank God, it has been completed,” he said, adding that the old regulation only recognized one host province.
Zainudin also stated that the two provinces should immediately sit together and coordinate with the Central and regional KONI for the smooth run of the event.
“This is a history, the first experience of PON being co-hosted, and trust is given to Aceh and North Sumatra. I remind you right from the start because this is new, all matters have to be properly regulated, Aceh and North Sumatra have equality and must be integrated, including with Aceh and North Sumatra Regional KONI Offices,” the Minister said. He added that the Government through the Ministry and Central KONI will monitor the progress of the preparations.
Furthermore, Zainudin emphasized matters regarding venue construction and post-holding management. All facilities must be built using international standards so that the infrastructure can also be continuously used for events and athlete training facilities, post-PON.
“It is necessary to think about how to combine it with economic activities, health, and so on, so that the venue will continue to be lively and functional,” the Minister said.
Head of Aceh Youth and Sports Office Dedy Yuswandi stated that the regional government has prepared the land for the event’s facilities and sports venues. “We are ready with all the preparations to host PON 2024. With the issuance of this decree, we are asking for the Central Government’s support, not only for budget but also for technical matters so that the holding of the event can be carried out properly,” Dedy said.
Meanwhile, Regional Secretary of North Sumatra R. Sabrina expressed gratitude for the appointment of the region. Similar to Aceh, North Sumatra also claimed to have started preparations for the construction of sports facilities. The regional government has prepared 300 hectares for the construction of North Sumatra sports center. The master plan has been created and discussed as well.
Sabrina further explained that the regional government must also learn from the experiences of other provinces so that after the event, the venue can still be utilized and become a source of income for the community and the province. (PR of Ministry of Youth and Sports/UN) (FI/MMB)
