'Athletes often neglect their education'

'Athletes often neglect their education'

After years of waiting, the country finally has a bill on sports,
which legislators endorsed last week. The bill, which will
automatically become law after one month with or without
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's endorsement, requires the
government to provide a pension for national athletes and
financial assistance for organizations that help develop the
country's sports industry. The Jakarta Post talked to residents
to get their views on the issue.

Abdul Hakim, 35, is a social worker whose brother used to be a
national table tennis player.

It is important for the government to start making a more
organized effort in paying attention to athletes, especially
those who are groomed since childhood.

These athletes do not have a comprehensive view of their
future. Their cognitive development is limited only to their
physical training. They often neglect their education, despite
the many examples of forgotten retired athletes.

The athletes also need to better understand the contract that
they are bound to. Unless they are aware that they need better
insurance and remuneration, they would most likely suffer at the
end of their service.

Sandyarini Augustina, 25, a public relations officer for a
fast-moving consumer goods company.

Athletes should receive more than they do now since they are
sacrificing their future for the country.

I agree that sports should be developed into an industry but
there must be a clear lines between business and sportsmanship.

These professional athletes should not end up commercializing
themselves, therefore whoever exploits their ability must
appreciate them accordingly.

The Jakarta Post