KONI Backs Sports Minister in Eliminating Sexual Violence; Perpetrators Barred from Sports for Life

JAKARTA — The General Chairman of the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) Pusat, Letjen TNI (Ret) Marciano Norman, expressed full support for the firm stance taken by the Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) Erick Thohir in eradicating sexual violence in the national sports environment.

The statement was made by Marciano whilst accompanying Menpora Erick Thohir in receiving East Javanese kickboxing athlete Viona Amalia Adinda Putri, who became a victim of alleged sexual violence by her coach. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Youth and Sports office in Jakarta on Friday, 13 March 2026.

During the meeting, Viona lodged a complaint and requested protection against intimidation she experienced after bravely disclosing the case of sexual harassment through social media.

Marciano affirmed that KONI Pusat fully supports the Menpora’s policy to cleanse the sports world from sexual violence practices that tarnish the values of sportsmanship and athlete development.

“KONI Pusat fully supports the policy of the Minister of Youth and Sports. We must combat cases such as this. There must be no coaches or parties involved in elite sports development who commit violations, particularly sexual harassment. This is deeply shameful and must not exist in our environment,” said Marciano.

He also expressed hope that legal proceedings will be conducted firmly and transparently. Should the alleged perpetrator be proven guilty, Marciano asserted that the person concerned must not be involved in sporting activities again.

“I hope that in the future, perpetrators like this are not allowed to participate in sporting activities and must not become members of any sports organisation,” he stated.

The government and sports organisations’ firm stance is expected to serve as a catalyst to strengthen protection for athletes, whilst ensuring that Indonesia’s sports environment remains safe and free from sexual violence.