Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir stated that long-term preparations will be implemented in the national training camp (pelatnas) program, in accordance with President Prabowo Subianto's directives for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, United States.
"So, we will follow your instructions. The national training camp could last one to two years, Sir, for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles," said Erick in his remarks at the Indonesian contingent's send-off for the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand at the State Palace.
Erick explained that President Prabowo requested that 21 sports be projected as medal winners, so that their development strategy would be more focused on the long term.
These adjustments were made to ensure that leading branches have adequate and continuous readiness to face international competition.
"As directed by the President, because the President wants these 21 sports to become our medal pools in the future, Sir," said Erick.
Regarding the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand, Erick said the athletes are determined to be ambassadors of the nation and fight tooth and nail for the Red and White.
"Mr. President, in your presence, the Indonesian contingent is determined to make this sport an ambassador for the nation that also reflects the greatness of our nation, Sir, and will fight tooth and nail for the Red and White," he said.
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.
Erick reported that the total Indonesian contingent numbered 1,021 athletes and was the fourth largest contingent in Southeast Asia after Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
He targets Indonesia to maintain its third-place finish, as it did at the previous SEA Games in Cambodia. Indonesia currently holds 87 gold, 80 silver, and 109 bronze medals.
