Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) of the Republic of Indonesia, Erick Thohir, officially inaugurated two senior executive officials within the Ministry of Youth and Sports on Friday (10/7). Suyadi Pawiro was appointed as Secretary of Kemenpora, while Teuku Arlan Perkasa Lukman was inaugurated as Deputy for Sports Industry Development.
In his address, Erick Thohir emphasized that this inauguration is a strategic step to enhance ministry governance to make it more impactful and integrity-driven. He highlighted the importance of the Kemenpora leadership working diligently to elevate the standing of the institution so it can compete at a higher level.
Erick specifically highlighted the strategic role of the Deputy for Sports Industry Development in shifting Kemenpora's paradigm. Traditionally, the ministry has often been viewed as a 'cost center' or a budget expenditure center. Moving forward, Erick wants to change this perception so that Kemenpora is recognized as a productive investment hub, both in the youth sector and athletic achievement.
According to him, the sports sector holds immense economic potential, particularly through the development of the sports industry and sport tourism. "Many countries now rely on this sector for economic growth. Athletes raising the Red and White flag are not just achieving success, but also representing a high-value form of *national branding*," Erick said.
Responding to this mandate, Suyadi Pawiro expressed his commitment to providing maximum service to the public and ensuring ministry programs deliver tangible benefits. Echoing this sentiment, Teuku Arlan Perkasa Lukman expressed his readiness to quickly adapt and carry out the Minister's directives to advance the national sports industry.
