Prabowo Subianto Announces Landmark National Sports Center Development in Indonesia
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Indonesia is poised to significantly elevate its athletic capabilities with the construction of a sprawling national sports center, spearheaded by President Prabowo Subianto. The ambitious project, encompassing 300 hectares, aims to provide world-class facilities and comprehensive support for the nation’s athletes, from youth development to elite performance.
A Comprehensive Hub for Athletic Excellence
The initiative, detailed following a meeting between President Subianto and Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) Erick Thohir on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, will feature a holistic ecosystem designed to nurture talent and maximize potential. According to the Menpora, the center will include not only state-of-the-art training facilities and comfortable dormitory accommodations, but also access to “top-notch healthcare” for all athletes.
“The President wants to ensure that our athletes receive the best facilities,” Thohir stated, emphasizing the commitment to providing an unparalleled training environment.
Prioritizing Education and Long-Term Development
A key focus of the national sports center will be the integration of education with athletic training. Recognizing the importance of a well-rounded development, the center will offer sports academies alongside continued educational opportunities for young athletes.
“Young athletes who are 12 years old should not drop out of school, but they should also receive education while training, progressing through their careers, or achieving higher levels of achievement,” Thohir explained. This commitment underscores a long-term vision for athlete development, ensuring they are prepared for life beyond their sporting careers.
Welfare, Scholarships, and Career Pathways
President Subianto has also prioritized athlete welfare, directing the proper allocation of scholarships through the LPDP (Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education Agency). Beyond financial support, the President is opening doors for high-achieving athletes to transition into public service roles, recognizing their dedication and discipline as valuable assets to the nation.
Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the bonus scheme for athletes competing in the SEA Games, Asian Games, and Olympic Games is underway, with details to be finalized in consultation with the Ministry of Finance. “I can’t reveal the figures yet because I have to consult with the Ministry of Finance first, as we need to create a big plan for the state budget,” Thohir noted.
A New Legal Framework for Olympic Ambitions
The development of the national sports center is being accompanied by the introduction of a new legal framework, designed to focus government resources on 21 Olympic sports. The SEA Games and Asian Games will serve as crucial stepping stones within this long-term preparation strategy.
“We really need to be efficient, with clear targets, so that sending athletes is no longer done haphazardly, but with specific targets for the sports branches sending athletes,” Thohir asserted, highlighting the shift towards a more strategic and targeted approach to international competition.
The precise location of the 300-hectare facility remains undisclosed, as it is currently navigating the administrative process. However, the commitment from President Subianto and the Menpora signals a new era for Indonesian sports, one built on comprehensive support, strategic planning, and a dedication to nurturing the nation’s athletic talent.
