Press Statement of President of the Republic Indonesia Before Leaving for East Nusa Tenggara Province at Halim Perdanakusuma Airforce Base, Jakarta, December 4, 2023
Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Alhamdulillah, thank God, on December 2, 2023, the World Cup for U-17 was completed. It was successful and the arrangement was very good and this was appreciated by FIFA as one of the best events. This achievement is a pride for all Indonesian people and also has a positive impact to Indonesia’s image in the eyes of the world and also encourages economic and tourism growth for our country.
Therefore, I have ordered PSSI and the Ministry of Youth and Sports to explore opportunities to host the U-20 cup in 2025 and U-17 for 2025 to 2029, and bid jointly with Singapore. I am sure that Indonesia and Singapore will be good hosts for the two tournaments I mentioned earlier, namely the U-17 and U-20 [World Cups].
I think that’s what I want to convey on this auspicious occasion.
Wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Press
Regarding the evaluation of U-17, Indonesia’s U-17 is ranked 18th, above South Korea and Panama. In the Standings we are in the top three. So what is the evaluation in the internal national team? Second, you highlighted that there is also an increase in the economy, from what sector, is it just from tourism or else?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Everything needs a process, it can’t be done instantly and then immediately become a champion. I think the best thing is that the more we participate in world level competitions, the better it will be for our U-17 or U-20. We will build the future of Indonesian football, not just for now. The more competitions we take part in, the better we will be.
Press
Regarding the evaluation of the facilities, how and whether there will be additional stadiums or other facilities for the next bidding. Next, how is the progress of the talk with [the Government] of Singapore regarding this? Thank you.
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
We are still in the process and we will complete renovations for our 22 football stadiums to prepare for the tournaments. The declaration of interest had been signed by PSSI and by the Football Association of Singapore.
Press
I’m Emir of CNBC. Regarding your working visit to East Nusa Tenggara, what are the details of your visit?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
A lot of events.
Press
(Inaudible)
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I have ordered the Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs to handle it together with the regional government and UNHCR.
Press
(Inaudible)
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Please ask Minister of Defense.
(EST/MMB)