Mayor of Medan, Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas, emphasized the important role of sports in shaping the character of the community as the foundation for regional development. This call was conveyed as he closed a padel tournament titled "Padel For All" held at 59 Padel Hub, Jalan Mangonsidi, Medan, on Sunday (12/7/2026) night.
The three-day event, which ran from July 10, was part of the series of celebrations for the 436th anniversary of Medan City. Rico expressed his appreciation for the community's enthusiasm, while emphasizing that sports have a strong unifying power to bring residents together regardless of social background or age.
"Sports teach the values of sportsmanship, discipline, and cooperation. The positive energy of a healthy and productive community is the main asset in realizing Medan's vision as an inclusive, advanced, and sustainable city," Rico said in his remarks.
At the same venue, Chairman of Beyond Sport Profesional 061, Saif Adli Heer, reported that the tournament successfully attracted participation from 135 pairs of athletes. He expressed hope that this collaboration between the government and the youth community can continue as a means of building ties and a platform for talent development for city residents.
The closing ceremony was also attended by members of the Medan City Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda), including Commander of 0201/Medan Military District Command Lieutenant Colonel Armed Delli Yudha Adi Nurcahyo and Deputy Chief of Medan Police Police Grand Commissioner Attendant Rudy Silaen. The presence of these policymakers highlights the government's full support for positive activities involving the younger generation in Medan.