Jakarta Preps Sports Venue Revamps Ahead of PON 2028

The Jakarta Youth and Sports Agency (Dispora) has proposed the revitalization of 26 sports facilities as part of preparations for National Sports Week (PON) 2028. The upgrades will cover sports halls (GOR), dormitories, and athletic fields.

This isn't purely for PON preparations

Jakarta Legislative Council (DPRD) Commission E Member Ghozi Zulazmi noted that revamping the 26 sports venues is a central pillar of Dispora’s additional budget request in the ongoing Draft City Budget (RAPBD) 2027 discussions.

He emphasized that the upgrades are designed to benefit everyday residents alongside supporting the PON 2028, pointing out that many of these facilities have deteriorated and were already scheduled for repairs.

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"This isn't purely for PON preparations. The infrastructure has already seen significant wear and tear, and renovation plans were already in the pipeline. Ultimately, this revitalization is about meeting public needs just as much as supporting the Games," he explained, Thursday (11/12).

He also requested that the additional budget proposals from the Dispora and the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) maintain a clear division of duties and programs to prevent overlapping. Dispora is directed to focus on providing and renovating sports infrastructure, while KONI prioritizes athlete development.

He assessed that athlete development must be KONI's primary focus, particularly in preparing as many athletes as possible to participate in the qualifying rounds or Pre-PON. This will maximize the chances for Jakarta athletes to pass qualification and compete in the PON 2028.

"We emphasize that the main focus must be athlete development—how athletes under KONI can be prepared in maximum numbers for Pre-PON. That is the crucial point so that our athletes can meet the qualification standards," he added.

Ghozi is optimistic that serving as a supporting host for the PON 2028 will significantly expand participation opportunities for Jakarta's athletes. Fielding a larger contingent across more sports and event categories is expected to strengthen the capital's bid for the overall championship title.

He noted that coordinated backing from the Jakarta administration and the City Council via Dispora and KONI plays a crucial role in keeping athletes motivated during training.

"The Governor is also prioritizing fast-tracking support through Dispora and KONI to lock in our overall champion goal. Competing on home turf gives athletes an extra surge of motivation—especially when backed by Dispora, KONI, and the DPRD. The city must ensure those needs are met," he concluded.