PON host urged to upgrade HRD

JAKARTA: Human resources is what the National Sports Council (KONI) is mostly concerned with as South Sumatra gears up for its role as host for the 2004 National Sports Championship.

"Preparation seems to be working as planned. Except for the main stadium and two indoor halls, the other venues have completed construction, including the lift-up works," Moh. Hindarto, KONI's official in charge of development, told a press conference here on Wednesday.

"One thing that needs upgrading are human resources. This is essential when we talk about how they should be pushed toward organizing the event well," he said, adding that he had told the organizers to consult KONI and 2000 host Surabaya.

It will be the first time in four decades that the quadrennial sporting event has ever been staged outside Java. Hindarto said there were probably going to be around 32 events, but the decision will not be sealed until after a consultation meeting is held early next year. --JP