By: Cut Meutia)*
The opening of the 2024 Aceh-North Sumatra National Sports Week (PON) was lively, showcasing the rich and fascinating diversity of Indonesian culture. This event is not only a national-level sports competition event, but also a stage for various cultural expressions that reflect the identity and richness of the nation’s traditions.
The opening of the 2024 Aceh-North Sumatra PON was held at the Harapan Bangsa Stadium, Banda Aceh City, on September 9, 2024. Thousands of spectators attended to watch various performances that combined elements of sport and culture.
The event became one of the historical moments full of excitement and national spirit. With various events and performances that combined elements of culture, history, and sports, this event managed to amaze thousands of spectators who attended, both in the main stadium and through live broadcasts. This year’s PON is not only a celebration of sports, but also a forum to show the diversity of Indonesian culture that is closely interwoven within the framework of unity.
The main stage was decorated with traditional Acehnese and North Sumatran ornaments, creating an atmosphere full of meaning and symbolism. Traditional music, regional dances, and colorful costumes were the main highlights, showing the spirit of togetherness and unity in diversity.
Destika Gilang, a 37-year-old Banda Aceh resident, expressed her enthusiasm for the opening of the PON. According to her, this event is an important moment for the people of Aceh to show pride in local culture.
Destika observed that every element of the performance was designed in detail, from the selection of songs to the dance choreography, which reflected the uniqueness and beauty of Acehnese culture.
His presence amidst the crowd showed how much support the local community has for this event, as well as their desire to introduce Acehnese culture to all of Indonesia.
Muhammad Riza, a member of the PON Opening Implementation Team, explained that the main theme of this event is “Aceh Hebat”. This theme was chosen to highlight everything that is special about Aceh, both in terms of culture, history, and the sporting potential of this region.
According to Muhammad Riza, “Aceh Hebat” not only reflects pride in the region’s achievements, but also as an inspiration for the younger generation to continue to excel in various fields. This theme is expected to unite all participants and spectators in the spirit of sportsmanship and togetherness.
Ade Akbar, a member of the PON XXI Opening Implementation Team, added that the opening ceremony was a combination of sports and spirit. Ade Akbar explained that the show was inspired by the historical event of Maha Jaya Semangat Malahayati, an Acehnese heroine known for her bravery in the struggle for independence.
The combination of historical elements aims to remind the public of the values of courage, fighting spirit, and love for the homeland that must continue to be maintained. Ade Akbar emphasized that the spirit of Malahayati was the basis for compiling this opening event, so that each performance was not only entertaining but also educational and inspiring.
The opening ceremony of PON Aceh-Sumut 2024 also featured various cultural elements from various regions in Indonesia. Each performance was arranged in such a way as to create harmony between tradition and modernity. The stage was also equipped with advanced technology, such as LED lighting and stunning visual effects, which added to the grandeur of the event without eliminating the nuances of the original culture.
The diversity of Indonesian culture is optimally displayed through the collaboration of various art elements. The costumes worn by the dancers come from various regions, showing the colorful cultures that exist in the archipelago.
The use of traditional musical instruments in each performance creates an authentic and meaningful atmosphere. In addition, messages of diversity and unity are always woven into each performance, emphasizing that the 2024 Aceh-North Sumatra PON is not only about sports competitions, but also about strengthening the bonds of brotherhood between citizens.
The peak event of the opening of PON Aceh-Sumut 2024 showed a symbol of the spirit and determination of participants to achieve. All parties, not only the community, but young athletes from various regions continue to show their hopes and dreams to achieve victory.
The cheers and applause of the audience added to the spirit of the athletes who were ready to compete in this prestigious event. This moment is a symbol that the diversity of Indonesian culture is a major strength in achieving common goals.
The excitement of the opening of the 2024 Aceh-North Sumatra PON successfully created an atmosphere full of enthusiasm and pride. By showcasing various cultural aspects from all over Indonesia, this event successfully demonstrated that diversity is not a barrier, but a source of wealth that can strengthen unity.
Through the theme of “Aceh Hebat” and inspiration from the history of Malahayati, PON Aceh-Sumut 2024 will not only be a sporting event, but also a celebration of culture and a strong national identity.
The opening of the 2024 Aceh-North Sumatra PON proves that Indonesia under Jokowi’s leadership is able to unite various cultural elements on one big stage. The spirit and enthusiasm of the community, coupled with the dedication of the committee, made this event a historic moment worth remembering.
Thus, Indonesia’s cultural diversity is not only showcased, but also used as a foundation for building a better and more harmonious future for the entire nation.
)* The author is a USU alumnus from Aceh