The Government Encourages The Integration Of Sports Into The Lifestyle Of The Community

Foto: RRI/Ellyani

The Government Encourages The Integration Of Sports Into The Lifestyle Of The Community

Wednesday, 15 Jan 2025

The government continues to promote sports as a widespread lifestyle among the Indonesian population, particularly in light of the numerous health complaints reported by individuals in the country.

This statement was made by Warsito, the Deputy for Coordination of Education Quality Improvement and Religious Moderation at the Ministry of Human Development and Cultural Coordination (Kemenko PMK). He noted that, according to a report from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) as of December 2024, 27.34 percent of Indonesia's population experiences health issues.

Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that 74 percent of global deaths in 2023 were attributed to non-communicable diseases and unhealthy lifestyles. "This serves as a foundation for the government to encourage active participation in sports among the populace," he remarked during a discussion with RRI Pro 3 on Saturday, January 11, 2025.

Warsito emphasized the importance of individuals allocating time for physical activity, ultimately making it a part of their lifestyle. "Ideally, we should dedicate approximately 140-250 minutes per week, or 30-40 minutes each day, to exercise," he stated.

He acknowledged that the level of regular sports participation among Indonesians remains relatively low, estimated at around 30-32 percent of the total population.

"This needs to be continuously encouraged," he asserted. Warsito mentioned that the government aims for 70 percent of the Indonesian population to be physically fit by the year 2045, in pursuit of a Golden Indonesia.

To enhance community participation in sports, the government is urging local regions to focus on the sports facilities available. Warsito indicated that this should be reflected in the Regional Sports Design (DOD) developed by each local government.

"We are currently assisting local governments in formulating the DOD, which includes the provision of sports facilities," he explained. This does not necessarily imply the construction of international-standard stadiums, but rather the creation of public spaces that facilitate community activities.