East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Governor Melki Laka Lena is pushing for accelerated readiness of the XXII/2028 PON arena amid warnings from the Central KONI that match locations that do not meet eligibility standards could potentially be moved.
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"Preparations for the PON must encompass five success targets: successful implementation, achievements, administration, economics, and tourism," Melki said at the launch of the 2026 Tour de EnTeTe in Malaka Regency.
Deputy Chairman I of the Indonesian National Sports Committee Suwarno previously reminded that potential match venues that do not meet eligibility standards can be moved to other locations based on technical evaluation.
In October 2026, KONI reviewed several potential venues in NTT, including a cricket facility in Kupang Regency, an aeromodelling facility in Alor Regency, and a whitewater rafting facility and women's soccer stadium in Ende Regency.
The review was conducted to map the condition of facilities, construction and renovation needs, and regional readiness.
In the sports allocation plan for the 22nd National Sports Week (PON XXII/2028), NTT was allocated 22 sports. However, the determination of competition locations still depends on the availability of facilities.
Melki emphasized that preparations for the PON require support from district governments, KONI, sports organizations, and the community.
According to him, readiness as a host includes not only competition facilities, but also athlete development, improving the quality of human resources, and community involvement.
He hopes that the 2028 PON will also stimulate the NTT economy through the tourism, transportation, hospitality, culinary, and micro, small, and medium enterprises sectors.
Melki also views the Tour de EnTeTe as a momentum to strengthen public participation in welcoming various national sporting agendas, including the 22nd National Sports Week in 2028.
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