Sports success spurs self confidence
JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto renewed the quest for better performance in international sporting events yesterday, saying that sports achievements will boost the nation's self confidence.
Speaking at the medal presentation for the nation's best sports figures which marked the 12th National Sports Day at the State Palace yesterday, Soeharto said that self confidence plays a major role in a developing nation.
"Reaching the heights in sports has become one of our responsibilities to narrow the gap in our lagging behind other nations," Soeharto said.
On Sept. 9, 1948, Indonesia, as a very young nation, held its first National Games in Surakarta, Central Java. Since 1983, Sept. 9 has been celebrated as National Sports Day.
A total of 32 athletes, 38 prime movers, 10 coaches, 12 referees and two governors received medals for their commendable showing and distinguished roles in sports development. Bola sports tabloid, the Jantung Indonesia foundation and three state- owned and private companies were included among the medal recipients.
Among the medal winning athletes are chess wizard Utut Adianto, the first Indonesian to enter the world's elite Grand Masters, and the women's trio of Nurfitriyana, Hamdiah and Dahliana, bronze medalists in the World Archery Championships here last month.
Indonesian gold medalists at the Special Olympic Games in New Haven, Connecticut in July dominated the list of medal winning athletes yesterday.
Mrs. Tien Soeharto, Harmoko, Akbar Tandjung, Hasjrul Harahap, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X and Soeweno were included in the outstanding prime movers category.
Soeharto reminded his listeners that the performance of the nation's athletes remained far below the public's expectations. "We indeed have to work harder in this area," he stressed.
As for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Soeharto asked the national team to battle it out in order to stretch Indonesia's domination in the biennial event.
"Regional and international sports gatherings are not only aimed at fostering close relationships among nations, but at showing who is the best," he said.
Indonesia has triumphed in all but one SEA Games since 1977. Thailand upset Indonesia when it played host to the sporting meet in 1985.
The president also called on sports clubs throughout the country to better their management and organization rather than focusing on raising more funds.
"Funds will mean nothing without a well-knit organization and management," he said.
"A grassroots base for an organization and solid management will make it easier for sports clubs to scout a bulk of talent," Soeharto said.
He suggested that the clubs need to cooperate with schools in their talent scouting program.
A massive parade around the National Monument (Monas) will be held this morning, with 38,000 people expected to join a number of national sports figures in the huge procession. Coordinating Minister for People's Welfare Azwar Anas will lead the parade. (amd)