KONI Central Supports Sports Ministry in Imposing Sanctions over Sexual Abuse Allegations

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) and the Indonesian Rock Climbing Federation (FPTI) have received support from the Central National Sports Committee (KONI) in their fact-finding efforts regarding allegations of sexual abuse and violence against athletes perpetrated by a coach with initials HB.

The support for Sports Minister Erick Thohir and his team was conveyed by KONI Central Chairman Lieutenant General (Retired) Marciano Norman in a press statement.

“As Chairman of KONI Central, I offer my support to the Kemenpora and FPTI in their investigation into the allegations of sexual abuse by one of the coaches,” said Marciano in a written statement on Monday, 2 March 2026.

Marciano expressed hope that sexual abuse will never occur again in Indonesian sports. Such behaviour undermines the values of sport that uphold sportsmanship, mutual respect, and adherence to applicable regulations.

“Athletes, coaches and officials are Indonesian Sports Patriots who must be protected,” said Marciano.

Therefore, Marciano stated that strict sanctions must be imposed on perpetrators if the allegations of sexual abuse and violence are proven.

“Should the allegations be proven true, strict sanctions must be imposed in accordance with applicable regulations so that this does not happen again in the future. Achievements that have been accomplished and brought pride must be matched with exemplary conduct as a coach, not disgraceful actions that disappoint athletes, other coaches and the sports community,” Marciano said.

Previously, Sports Minister Erick Thohir affirmed his commitment to thoroughly investigate allegations of sexual abuse and physical violence against athletes at the national rock climbing training centre (pelatnas).

Erick has also established a complaint channel for athletes who have been or are victims of sexual violence. Victims can submit reports to pengaduan.atlet@kemenpora.go.id.

“I will ensure that any individuals who commit sexual abuse against our athletes are investigated thoroughly by the team and receive lifetime bans from sports involvement, and if necessary, will be referred to the police,” he concluded.