Central Java Government to Review Open-Water Events at Provincial Games
Jepara (ANTARA) – Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen will review events held in open water at the 17th Central Java Provincial Sports Week (Porprov) to reduce the risk of accidents.
“This is an issue we will review to ensure athletes’ safety is properly protected. As the event takes place at sea, athletes’ security must receive the utmost attention,” Taj Yasin, who also chairs the organising committee for the 2026 games, said in a written statement received in Jepara on Tuesday.
The review follows the death of Jepara diver Syabilla Rizkia Putri Raharja while competing in the 3,000-metre Open Water Finswimming (OWF) event off the coast of Awann Costa, Semarang, on Sunday (25 October).
On Monday (26 October), Taj Yasin and officials visited Syabilla’s family home in Pengkol subdistrict, Jepara district, to pay their respects and offer condolences.
He said the incident underscored the importance of taking account of athletes’ physical condition and fitness. “Going forward, there needs to be further checks. We can exercise and take part, but we must still be mindful of our capabilities,” he said.
Taj Yasin said organisers had completed several preparations before the competition, including confirming that athletes were registered for protection under BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, Indonesia’s employment social security agency. Nevertheless, he said a review was still needed, particularly for events held in open water.
Ajar said he and his family had accepted what happened, but hoped the Central Java provincial government and Porprov organisers would conduct a review to prevent a similar incident.
Before her death, Syabilla had earned two gold medals for the Jepara regency team, in the 100-metre and 200-metre events.
As a gesture of support, the Porprov committee and the Central Java provincial government will provide assistance in recognition of Syabilla’s achievements. Her family will also receive applicable benefits under BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, while support from the regency government is expected to supplement the assistance.