'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