PB ABTI prepares international agenda and strengthens athlete development

The Indonesian Handball Association  has prepared a number of strategic agendas for 2027 to improve national handball achievements, ranging from organizing international championships to strengthening the development of young athletes through tiered competitions.

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PB ABTI Chairman Zulfydar Zaidar Mochtar said one of the main agendas next year is to hold international championships in the youth and junior women's categories as part of an effort to provide competitive experience for Indonesian athletes while improving the quality of national competitions.

"We have confirmed that we will hold youth and junior women's competitions at the international level next year," said Zulfydar after the inauguration of the ABTI Executive Board for the 2026-2030 term.

In addition to this agenda, PB ABTI is also considering opportunities for collaboration in organizing the International League in 2027, 2028, and 2029.

According to Zulfydar, the development of Indonesian handball will focus on two disciplines: indoor handball and beach handball. However, the federation is currently prioritizing the development of beach handball.

To support this target, PB ABTI will also strengthen the athlete development system through programs designed based on age levels and achievement targets.

Zulfydar explained that the federation has prepared a guidebook containing technical aspects, coaching procedures, and achievement targets for athletes from junior to senior groups.

He believes regeneration is a crucial factor in ensuring Indonesia's handball achievements can develop sustainably.

"We have to calculate when the juniors will start and when the seniors' targets can be achieved. So, those targets must be prepared," said Zulfydar.

PB ABTI will also develop a Student League as a foundation for developing athletes at the school level. The program targets junior high and high school students, involving schools and provincial administrators in the athlete development and recruitment process.

Potential athletes from the region will later be projected to participate in coaching and competitions at a higher level, including through the involvement of universities.

Zulfydar hopes that handball can develop in educational settings so that more young athletes will learn about and pursue the sport.