Number of Alleged Sexual Assault Victims at National Rock Climbing Training Centre Increases; Sports Minister Erick Responds

Indonesia’s Sports Minister Erick Thohir has expressed deep concern and issued a strong condemnation of the rising number of athletes allegedly subjected to physical violence and sexual harassment within the national rock climbing training centre (Pelatnas). According to information provided by the Indonesian Rock Climbing Federation (FPTI), the number of athletes filing reports has increased from eight to ten.

“The safety, dignity, and future of athletes are our top priority. There is no place for sexual violence in Indonesian sports, including training centres which should be places for the growth and development of the nation’s finest athletes. We uphold a zero tolerance principle towards all forms of harassment and violence,” said Sports Minister Erick in an official statement on Sunday (1 March 2026).

The Sports Minister also assured that reporting athletes will receive complete protection from all forms of intimidation and pressure, and guaranteed that their rights and career continuity will not be compromised.

“The state stands with athletes, protecting the confidentiality of reporters’ identities, and providing them with complete protection from all forms of pressure and intimidation, including protection for their career continuity. We are also encouraging long-term legal and psychological support to be provided to safeguard the future of victims,” said the Sports Minister.

The Sports Minister hopes this case will serve as an impetus for comprehensive evaluation of the training system at national centres. This includes strengthening oversight mechanisms, establishing safe and confidential reporting systems, and implementing athlete protection policies across all sports disciplines.

He stated that this case is a lesson for all parties. The resolution of the case, according to the Sports Minister, is not an endpoint because systems must be improved to prevent similar incidents from recurring.

“This is an opportunity to conduct comprehensive reforms in athlete protection governance. We must ensure that Indonesian sports are clean, safe, and uphold humanitarian values. I urge all parties to collectively oversee this case to completion,” emphasised Sports Minister Erick.