By: Kevin Simarmata )*
The 21st National Sports Week (PON) to be held in Aceh and North Sumatra (Sumut) in September 2024 is not only a sports competition event, but is also expected to unite the nation. By involving various sports and thousands of athletes from all over Indonesia, PON Aceh-Sumut has the potential to strengthen relations between regions and increase a sense of togetherness among the community.
PON XXI is very special because it is the first time it is being held in two provinces, Aceh and North Sumatra, since the first PON in 1948. Also, as the PON with the most participants, it involves 38 provincial contingents, which includes the New Autonomous Regions (DOB) and even the National Capital City (IKN) of the Archipelago.
PON Aceh-Sumut is a rare opportunity to celebrate the diversity and richness of Indonesian culture through sports. By gathering athletes from various provinces, this event not only aims to measure physical abilities and skills, but also to show the spirit of national unity. Each sport that is competed, from athletics, basketball, to traditional sports, will be a place to get to know each other and understand the culture and character of each region.
The PON XXI Torch Relay which took place ahead of the main event in Aceh and North Sumatra has also become an important symbol of the unity of the Indonesian nation. This torch relay is not just a tradition, but a representation of the spirit of togetherness and unity that unites all regions in the country. The Regional Secretary (Sekda) of Nagan Raya, Ardimartha, reminded that PON XXI Aceh-Sumut is not only an event to achieve achievements, but also an opportunity to strengthen unity and togetherness among all parties. This message was conveyed by Ardimartha when welcoming the PON XXI Aceh-Sumut torch relay in the yard of the Nagan Raya Regent’s Office.
Ardimartha invited all parties to make the spirit of PON a momentum to strengthen the sense of togetherness, mutual cooperation, and a sense of belonging to the nation and state. He emphasized that the spirit represented by the PON torch must be maintained and preserved because this spirit unites the entire nation from Sabang to Merauke. Ardimartha also hopes that the PON torch procession can run smoothly and successfully. He wants the implementation of PON this time to be carried out safely, orderly, and lively, and to be proof that Indonesia is a great and united nation.
Furthermore, Ardimartha stated that PON is one of the prestigious national sporting events that aims to establish cooperation, relationships, and good results for the unity and integrity of the nation. He sees the implementation of PON as an opportunity to foster national spirit, promote culture and tourism, and strengthen the MSME sector.
On the other hand, when the PON XXI Aceh-North Sumatra 2024 Torch Relay officially arrived in Simalungun Regency, AKBP Choky Sentosa Meliala, in his speech read the official speech from the Simalungun Regent. The Simalungun Regent expressed his gratitude to the Aceh Provincial Government for its support in overseeing the Torch Relay until it arrived in Simalungun Regency. The Regent emphasized that this cooperation reflects the spirit of mutual cooperation and high unity among the Indonesian people.
In addition, the speech read by the Simalungun Police Chief emphasized the importance of the PON Torch Parade as a tradition that is highly anticipated by the community every time PON is held. The torch parade, which starts from Aceh Province, enters the border of North Sumatra, and arrives in Simalungun Regency, is a symbol of spirit that symbolizes tenacity, courage, and perseverance. The speech reminded that the spirit of PON must continue to burn, not only in the hearts of athletes but also in the entire Indonesian community.
In the closing speech read by the Chief of Police, there was an important message from the Regent of Simalungun regarding the deep meaning of the PON Torch Parade in the context of culture and national unity. The Chief of Police said that the Torch Parade reminds the public of Indonesia’s diversity which includes various tribes, religions, and cultures. The journey of this torch reflects the journey of a colorful nation but remains united in the spirit of diversity.
Furthermore, the PON XXI Aceh-Sumut 2024 Torch Relay will then be continued to the Pematang Siantar area and continue to other locations, carrying a message of enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and unity in order to welcome the upcoming National Sports Week. PON XXI Aceh-Sumut 2024 is expected to be an event that inspires all Indonesian people to participate more and ignite the spirit of sports in the country.
PON Aceh-Sumut is not just a sports competition, but also a celebration of deep unity. Through this event, it is hoped that there will be more interaction and mutual understanding between regions, as well as foster a strong national spirit among all participants and spectators. With the support and participation of all elements of society, PON XXI will be a historic moment that strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and unity of the Indonesian nation. Let us together support the PON XXI Aceh-Sumut 2024 event.
)* Student of Physical Education and Sports Unimed