Gov't gives $420,000 for athletic support

JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) received US$420,000 (Rp 950 million) in funds, yesterday, to finance team Indonesia's training for the upcoming Asian Games in Hirosima, Japan.

They received the money from the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Hayono Isman.

"This is the first time the government has put aside this much funding from the State Budget for KONI," the Minister said.

He remarked that, in the past, sports developments were mostly financed by the now illegal state sponsored lottery (SDSB).

SDSB, a lottery popular among the poor, had contributed about Rp 95 billion, over a five year period, for this country's athletic development.

The government has stated that Indonesia requires at least Rp 36 billion per year to cover their athletic programs.

Hayono also acknowledged that the government's contribution will not cover the budget for the Asiad - which will take place next October - estimated at Rp 3 billion.

He also explained that about Rp 535 million out of the Rp 950 million in donations must be channeled to regional sports development, which is unrelated to the Asiad plan.

He also encouraged KONI to "actively and creatively raise funds."

"If we can't do that, we must cut the number of athletes to be sent to Hirosima next October," warned Hayono.

Indonesia plans to send 150 athletes in 15 events for the Asian Games in Hirosima, Japan. (hdj)