The Indonesian Olympic Committee (NOC Indonesia) is exploring strategies to develop a more comprehensive sports ecosystem through a working visit to the United States. Part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), this program aims to dissect the key to the US's success in maintaining dominance at the Olympic Games through a structured development system from early childhood to the elite level.
President of NOC Indonesia, Raja Sapta Oktohari, highlighted that the main strength of the US lies in cross-sector integration. Collaboration between academia, the sports industry, and sport science research support serves as the pillar capable of creating sustainable achievements. The Indonesian delegation specifically studied diverse funding mechanisms, ranging from the private sector and sponsorships to philanthropic support, which serve as the main drivers of sports organization operations there.
During visits to various regions such as Colorado Springs and Indianapolis, the NOC Indonesia team had the opportunity to inspect facilities owned by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and the Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). This exchange of ideas provided deep insights into the importance of supporting infrastructure that focuses not only on winning medals, but also on athlete protection and long-term career sustainability.
Okto added that a university-based competition system like the NCAA in the US could be a relevant model to adapt in Indonesia. This concept aligns with the government's directive to systematically strengthen the foundation of national sports. All observations from this visit will be compiled into a strategic report to be submitted to the Minister of Youth and Sports for further review and implementation according to the needs and characteristics of national sports.
