KONI told to focus on finding new talent

KONI told to focus on finding new talent

JAKARTA (JP): President B.J. Habibie urged new officials from
the National Sports Council (KONI) to pursue talent scouting,
citing the activity as the most important process by which
champions are created.

In a speech to install KONI officials at the State Palace on
Monday, Habibie said that without talent it would be very
difficult to prepare youths to become good athletes.

"We all realize that a good development process and talent
have the biggest influence on an athlete's achievement," he said.

Habibie urged KONI officials to provide a coordinated and
dedicated effort to improve Indonesian athletic achievements in
Asia and the world.

"Generally, our athletes' performance remains unsatisfactory.
Although some athletes in badminton and weightlifting have shown
great form in international events, many others have yet to
achieve their best in Asia, moreover the world."

Habibie supported KONI's ambitious long-term training project,
the Golden Garuda, as the best program to prepare athletes in
order to fulfill its ambition to finish sixth at the 2006 Asian
Games.

KONI chairman Wismoyo Arismunandar promised that the new
officials would intensify their talent scouting and long-term
training program to ensure the younger generation can live
adequately as professional athletes.

Wismoyo expressed hope that the 2006 Asiad would provide a
bench mark for national sports development.

"We must see the 2006 Asian Games bidding as a milestone (in
order) to take further steps. It boosts our national pride."

He said KONI had lobbied neighboring countries to select
Indonesia as the 2006 Asiad host.

"If we don't lobby them how could we win the bidding? We can't
wait for something because it won't come for nothing."

Indonesia faces tough challenges from Malaysia, the United
Arab Emirates, India and Qatar in bidding to host the 2006 Asiad.

Wismoyo was elected for a second term through a national
congress in February. He retained most of his former officials,
including secretary-general Rudolf S. Warouw, treasurer Setya
Novanto and Mochamad Hindarto, who is in charge of athletes
development. (prb/yan)