Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) lauded the successful implementation of the XVI Papua National Paralympic Week (Peparnas) from November 5–13, 2021 in Jayapura district and city.
"I would like to congratulate Papua for having successfully organized the National Sports Week (PON) and Peparnas as well as becoming the champion of Peparnas," he remarked, according to a statement issued by the Presidential Secretariat's press bureau here on Saturday.
Widodo made the remarks after watching judo matches for visually impaired athletes at the Trikora Sports Center, Abepura sub-district, Jayapura city.
On the same occasion, Special Staff of the President, Angkie Yudistia, said that the implementation of the national sporting event proves that athletes with disabilities can compete and show their potential just the same as non-disabled athletes.
"The President is highly proud of all athletes with disabilities. It is hoped that they are continued to be honed, thus they will represent Indonesia in international competitions," she said.
The President has also asked sportspersons with disabilities across Indonesia to keep improving their potential, she added.
The XVI Papua Peparnas also served as a stage for people with disabilities to showcase their talents and potential to make Indonesian people proud, she noted.
“The President appreciates all officials, athletes, coaches, and people who support them," she added.
President Widodo was scheduled to close the XVI Papua Peparnas at the Mandala Stadium, Jayapura city on Saturday.
He was accompanied by State Secretary Minister Pratikno, Investment Minister/head of the Investment Coordinating Board, Bahlil Lahadalia, Youth and Sports Minister Zainudin Amali, as well as Jayapura Mayor Benhur Tomi Mano.
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