The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) has officially designated the provinces of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), and DKI Jakarta as hosts of the XXII National Sports Week (PON) in 2028. The decision was formalized through the handing over of official decree letters to the respective regional governors at the Kemenpora Office, Jakarta, on Tuesday (23/6).
Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir emphasized that the upcoming PON must strictly adhere to the principles of efficiency and transparency. This directive aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's instruction to ensure that every governance process runs cleanly, accountably, and minimizes administrative hurdles that often arose in the past.
Erick added that PON XXII is not merely a ceremonial event, but a crucial instrument in fostering national sporting achievements. The event is projected to serve as a stepping stone for athletes to hone their skills before competing on international stages, such as the SEA Games, Asian Games, and the Olympics.
Responding to the appointment, regional leaders from the three provinces expressed full readiness. NTB Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal stated that his administration would optimize existing infrastructure so as not to burden the budget with new facility construction. A similar sentiment was expressed by NTT Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, who committed to making PON an economic driver for the region as well as a platform to promote local tourism potential.
Meanwhile, DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung affirmed the capital's readiness to provide international-standard sports facilities. Through collaboration between regional government-owned facilities and the private sector, Jakarta is optimistic about supporting the success of Indonesia's largest sporting event.
Similar support also came from Commission X of the House of Representatives (DPR RI). Deputy Chairman of Commission X Lalu Hadrian Irfani assured that his institution will continue to oversee preparations for PON 2028. He expressed hope that this cross-regional collaboration can produce talented generations of athletes capable of bringing honor to Indonesia in the future.
