In a speech ahead of the send-off of the 33rd Thailand SEA Games contingent at the State Palace on Friday, Prabowo asked Minister of State Secretary (Mensesneg) Prasetyo Hadi and Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) Erick Thohir about the possibility of increasing incentives for high-achieving athletes.
"We will encourage you, gentlemen, what about the Minister of Youth and Sports? Will we give a budget incentive of 500 rupiah to those who win gold medals? Can it be increased to 1 billion rupiah? Yes, it can. Can it? The State Secretary can do it? Thank God," Prabowo said.
The President emphasized that these incentives are not the sole motivation for competing. He stated that they are a form of state appreciation for the nation's best athletes who have brought honor to Indonesia.
Furthermore, the government always respects and appreciates the services of sports heroes. Therefore, the state will always be there to provide the support it deserves for athletes who strive.
"I'm sure you're not competing solely for the money. But from your faces, it's clear that winning an award like this will greatly help your career," he said.
The President advised the athletes to compete wholeheartedly and to give their all. He also emphasized the importance of a fighting spirit and inner strength.
Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir emphasized to President Prabowo Subianto that the Indonesian athletes who will compete in the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand are determined to be ambassadors of the nation and fight tooth and nail for the Red and White.
He conveyed this in his remarks at the send-off ceremony for the Indonesian contingent to the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand at the State Palace, Jakarta, Friday afternoon.
Erick said that the Indonesian contingent has been prepared to participate in the largest sporting event in Southeast Asia, which will take place from December 9 to 20, 2025.
Eleven countries participated in the event, competing in 51 sports. The Indonesian contingent competed in 48 sports and underwent a training camp for approximately two and a half months.
