ACEH TAMIANG, WJN — Sports are more than just competitions and medals. They are a strategic instrument for building a healthy, disciplined and accomplished generation while strengthening the identity and reputation of Aceh Tamiang.
Chairman of the Indonesian Journalists Joint Secretariat (SWI) Aceh Tamiang, Hendriko, has emphasized the importance of developing sports as an integral part of regional development.
The statement was delivered in Karang Baru on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
According to Hendriko, sports development must begin at the grassroots level, from villages and schools to sub-districts and the regency level. The potential of young athletes in Aceh Tamiang, he said, should not be held back by limited facilities or inadequate coaching.
“Sports must be viewed as an investment in the future. From sports fields, we can produce a generation that is disciplined, sportsmanlike and determined. Their achievements will also become a source of pride for Aceh Tamiang,” Hendriko said.
He stressed that stronger cooperation is needed among the local government, KONI, schools, youth organizations, sports communities, the private sector and the media to create a sustainable and competitive sports ecosystem.
Hendriko also called for greater attention to sports facilities, particularly in rural areas. Adequate facilities, he said, can provide young people with positive activities while helping prevent them from becoming involved in harmful or negative activities.
“Do not wait for a competition before looking for athletes. We must build development programs from the grassroots. Villages should become the birthplace of Aceh Tamiang’s future athletes,” he emphasized.
Beyond athletic achievement, Hendriko believes sports can also serve as a powerful tool for promoting the region. When athletes from Aceh Tamiang succeed at provincial, national and even international levels, the name and reputation of the regency will rise with them.
“Aceh Tamiang has enormous potential. If sports are developed seriously, consistently and through collaboration, there is no reason why sports cannot become one of the driving forces that makes Aceh Tamiang more recognized and more advanced,” Hendriko concluded.
(SIPS)