Aquatic Federation reveals Asian Championship in Bali inspires South Korea

The Indonesian Aquatic Federation (PB Akuatik Indonesia) has revealed that the 2026 Asian Open Water Swimming Championship in Jimbaran, Bali, has inspired South Korea to pursue hosting the event in the next period. “They are happy and this has even become an inspiration for them,” said PB Akuatik Indonesia Daily Chair Harlin E Rahardjo in Jimbaran, Badung Regency, Bali, on Sunday. He explained that the South Korean Aquatic Federation will compete against three other candidates vying to become the next host: Oman, Macau, and Hong Kong. He added that these three candidates have regularly hosted open water swimming championships in the past. “This is a source of pride for us, and hopefully open water championships in Indonesia will become more frequent because we have extraordinary natural potential,” he added. The championship in Bali is combined with sports tourism, featuring the distinctive arts and culture of the Island of the Gods to attract participants. Harlin noted that Bali has the advantage of being a world-renowned tourist destination, as well as possessing adequate and complete natural assets and infrastructure, including access. “So when we organise a championship, it cannot just be about the sea; there must be hotels, roads, an airport, and access. That is what we will also collaborate on with the Ministry of Tourism,” he added. Meanwhile, Asia Aquatics Secretary General Farid Fatahian revealed that the four candidates competing for the host of the 13th edition in 2027 will be discussed at the main congress, where the host will be selected by voting or appointed by the congress. “It is likely they (the congress session) will choose one country because they have seen the competition in Bali and are very interested in becoming the host,” he added. Bali is hosting the 12th Asian Open Water Swimming Championship 2026, which includes the main championship for professional athletes and the A. Stream OWS Series for beginner swimmers, sports community members, and the general public. A total of 78 professional athletes from 18 Asian countries are participating in the prestigious event in Jimbaran, Badung, Bali.