Cirebon City officially took center stage in West Java's student sports world after being appointed to host the 2026 Regional Student Sports Week (Popwilda). The event, held at the Bima Sports Hall, was officially opened by the Regional Secretary of Cirebon City, Iing Daiman, on Monday (6/7/2026), attended by KONI officials and athlete contingents from various regions across Region 3 Cirebon.
In his speech, Iing Daiman emphasized that Popwilda is not merely a contest of physical strength. He urged all young athletes to use this competition as a means to forge high character, integrity, and sportsmanship. According to him, a true victory for a student-athlete lies in the ability to maintain a professional attitude and respect opponents on the field.
"We are fully committed to supporting sports development as part of fostering a healthy and high-achieving young generation. Do not focus solely on medals, but view this competition experience as a stepping stone to becoming resilient individuals in the future," Iing emphasized before the participants.
The Cirebon City Government also expressed its highest appreciation to the coaches, teachers, and managers who have served as the frontline in nurturing athletic talent from an early age. Synergy between educators and mentors is considered the key key to producing athletes capable of bringing honor to the region on the national stage.
Echoing this sentiment, the Chairman of KONI Cirebon City, Handarujati, explained that this championship is a crucial stage in the long-term sports development roadmap. Popwilda serves as an effective platform for KONI to monitor potential talents who will be systematically prepared for the 2030 West Java Provincial Sports Week (Porprov).
"We view Popwilda as part of an ongoing talent development process. Preparations for Porprov 2030 have already begun through the screening of potential student-athletes, ensuring they are ready to compete at higher levels in the future, both regionally and nationally," Handarujati concluded.
