Jakarta. The Indonesian government is seeking to strengthen the national sports ecosystem by developing kickboxing as a platform for talent development, sporting achievement and regional economic activity.

The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs said sports development can contribute to the economy through sporting events, the growth of the sports industry and the promotion of local economic potential.

The ministry’s Expert Staff for Regional Development, Haryo Limanseto, highlighted the broader role of sports during his inauguration as Deputy Chairman for Institutional Affairs and Communications of the Indonesian Kickboxing Association at the headquarters of the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) on Wednesday.

“Sports have a broader dimension. They build character, develop talent, create economic activity and have the potential to promote the identity and strengths of regions,” Haryo said.

He said developing the sports ecosystem requires an integrated approach involving government, sports organizations, businesses, communities and the public.

Kickboxing has continued to expand in Indonesia. At the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand, Indonesian kickboxers won one gold, one silver and four bronze medals.

More than 250 athletes from 19 provinces also competed in the 2025 Senior National Championship and Junior Kickboxing Open Championship, reflecting the sport’s growing base of athletes and development programs across the country.

The government sees sporting events as having potential economic spillovers for host regions, benefiting accommodation, transportation, food and beverage businesses, sports equipment suppliers, event organizers and local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

The broader sports industry also includes sporting goods and apparel, sponsorship, broadcasting and other commercial activities.

“Going forward, we need to see how sports can grow together with regional economic ecosystems. Sporting events can provide athletes with opportunities to excel, communities with opportunities to participate and local businesses with opportunities to grow,” Haryo said.

Beyond its economic potential, sports development is also part of efforts to build a healthier, more productive and competitive workforce. The government is pursuing sports talent development through regional centers for high-performance athletes.

Indonesian Kickboxing Association Chairman Ngatino said the organization’s immediate focus is to strengthen the athlete development ecosystem through better organizational management, improved training for coaches and athletes, facilities and competitions that give young talent opportunities to progress.

The association plans to hold a national championship in early November, featuring a gala night with 10 top athletes. In 2027, it plans to develop professional athletes and select another 10 prospects who could eventually represent Indonesia in international competitions.

“Developing athletes requires a consistent process and collaboration among the government, sports organizations, businesses, communities and the public,” Ngatino said.

KONI Chairman Marciano Norman also attended the event.

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