Sports Minister Commends Courage of Viona in Exposing Alleged Sexual Harassment

Indonesia’s Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) Erick Thohir received national kickboxing athlete Viona Amalia Adinda Putri at the Ministry of Sports in Jakarta on Friday, 13 March. Viona, an athlete from East Java, has courageously exposed allegations of sexual violence within the sports community.

During the meeting, Minister Erick expressed his appreciation for Viona’s bravery in bringing forward a case that he considers a serious problem requiring eradication from the world of sport.

“I am receiving our kickboxing athlete Viona, who has shown tremendous courage in exposing an issue that we must confront and thoroughly cleanse,” stated Minister Erick.

The Sports Minister emphasised that the government would be at the forefront alongside all sports stakeholders in ensuring such cases do not occur again. He stressed that perpetrators of sexual violence within the sports environment must face strict sanctions, including lifelong bans from involvement in sporting activities.

“The Ministry of Sports stands at the fore with all sports stakeholders that such matters must not occur again. Those responsible—pardon the harsh language—are despicable, and they must indeed be barred from sporting activities for life,” stated Minister Erick firmly.

Minister Erick also expressed full support for the case being processed through legal channels by the police.

“Where this falls under the domain of the police authority, we certainly support it fully,” said Minister Erick.

The Sports Minister’s firm statement is expected to serve as an important step towards creating a safe, clean sporting environment that protects athletes from all forms of violence. “Our sports sector must be clean,” concluded Minister Erick.