Jakarta. The Indonesian Volleyball Federation (PBVSI) is preparing a plan to naturalize four foreign athletes as part of a long-term effort to strengthen the national team ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

The proposal is still in the administrative stage and will require further discussions with the government before it can move forward.

Imam Sudjarwo, chairman of the PBVSI, said the proposal includes two male and two female players. The federation plans to meet with Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir before formally submitting the plan to the House of Representatives (DPR).

“All the naturalization plans I have mentioned involve two male players and two female players. We are currently preparing the administrative documents, and soon I will meet the minister to discuss the matter,” Imam said in Jakarta on Sunday.

PBVSI considers the naturalization program an important step to strengthen the national team’s competitiveness.

The federation believes the move could accelerate performance improvements as Indonesia prepares for the 2032 Summer Olympics in Brisbane.

Imam acknowledged that naturalization could be seen as a shortcut. However, he stressed that the federation remains committed to long-term athlete development and will continue encouraging local players to improve.

The four targeted athletes are from Brazil and are expected to be relatively young, allowing them to reach their competitive peak by the time the 2032 Olympics take place. Their identities have not yet been disclosed.

PBVSI added that the athletes have not yet played in Indonesia’s professional league, which is among the factors being considered.

The federation said the naturalization program would not disrupt domestic player development. Existing initiatives, including the Jakarta Garuda Jaya program and the participation of junior athletes in national and international tournaments, will continue.

Imam emphasized that the naturalization policy would be implemented on a limited basis and would not diminish the national identity of Indonesian volleyball.

According to PBVSI, the four prospective players have already expressed their willingness to represent Indonesia, although the federation is still reviewing regulatory matters, particularly related to their diaspora status.

In addition to the players, PBVSI is also planning to recruit a coach from Brazil to train and develop the athletes.

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