Indonesian Ambassador Welcomes Indonesian Runners Participating in Tokyo Marathon

Jakarta – Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Nurmala Kartini Pandjaitan Sjahrir welcomed the participation of 150 Indonesian runners in the Tokyo Marathon 2026 in Tokyo on Saturday.

Through a statement from the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo received in Jakarta, Ambassador Kartini stated that the Indonesian runners’ participation in the Tokyo Marathon 2026 represents a manifestation of the spirit of collaboration in promoting Indonesia and strengthening friendship with Japan.

“I hope all Indonesian runners can complete the race in good health and bring Indonesia’s message of friendship to the world,” said Ambassador Kartini during the Pocari Sweat Carbo Loading session held ahead of the Tokyo Marathon 2026.

Carbo loading, or carbohydrate loading, involves increasing carbohydrate intake for runners to boost glycogen levels in muscles before undertaking long-distance running such as marathons.

Ambassador Kartini further conveyed that the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo consistently supports Indonesian community activities in international events. According to her, the carbo-loading activity is not merely physical preparation but also a moment of togetherness to provide mutual support and strengthen participants’ confidence.

“This also includes opening networks for international friendship. Additionally, it serves as a learning opportunity in developing the quality of Indonesian sports and participating in world-class marathon events,” she added.

A total of 150 Indonesian runners will participate in the Tokyo Marathon, which will be held on Sunday, 1 March.

Beyond the number of participants, eight influential young Indonesian figures were present, namely Iqbal Saputra (Runner); Agus Prayogo (Runner); Andrew Gunawan Tandiari (Runner); Irvin Iskandar (Runner); Aulia Fathurrahman (Runner); Erika Richardo (Painter); Angga Yunanda (Actor); and Jerome Polin Sijabat (YouTuber).