Jakarta won overall champion at Popnas XVI which took place in Palembang, South Sumatra.

Jakarta has managed to become the champion in Popnas XVI

Jakarta Youth and Sports Agency (Dispora) Head, Andri Yansyah expressed the overall championship title was achieved with a score of 84 gold, 49 silver, and 47 bronze medals.

"Alhamdulillah (thank God), we pray to God because Jakarta has managed to become the champion in Popnas XVI, moreover we have been fasting for the last few years," he expressed on the sidelines of the Popnas XVI Closing Ceremony at the Jakabaring Sport City Dinning Hall, Sunday (9/3) night.

He explained this achievement could be achieved thanks to the full support of the Jakarta Provincial Government, Jakarta DPRD, as well as the enthusiasm and motivation of managers, coaches, assistant coaches, and all athletes to give the best performance.

"My thanks to the Jakarta Acting Governor, City Secretary, assistants, OPD in the Jakarta Government, athlete's parents, KONI, Bapopsi, medical staff, and all those who fully supported this achievement," he explained.

He hoped that this achievement could further motivate Jakarta's athletes to be even better and not only take part in national level competitions, but also internationally.

"Of course, this is the hope of all of us and the aspirations of the athletes, thus they can later represent Indonesia at international level competitions and reap the best achievements," he explained.

He added the general champion that had been achieved needed to be maintained in the next Popnas.

"The next Popnas will be placed in Aceh and North Sumatera. We're committed to winning the General Champion title again to add more our gold medals," he added.

Chef de Mission for Jakarta Contingent at Popnas XVI, Rahman Defiandi, also expressed his appreciation and gratitude to all parties involved directly or indirectly in Jakarta's success in winning the title of General Champion.

"My thanks to the Dispora Head who tirelessly gave advice, input, and constructive criticism for the common good and this achievement," he expressed.

Even though he was in the postoperative recovery period, he kept giving direct support by coming to match venues.

"He set a good example, we feel salute and proud. I really saw that the athletes were getting motivated by his presence," he concluded.

Defiandi apologized if the service to athletes and officials still had deficiencies.

"I apologize if there are still shortcomings. If something is not good, it will be an evaluation, thus it can be improved again at the next Popnas," he added.

As for the information, West Java is in second place with a score of 50 gold, 37 silver, and 53 bronze medals. Meanwhile, East Java is in third place with 49 gold, 45 silver, and 49 bronze medals.

Popnas XVI was officially closed by South Sumatera City Secretary, SA Supriono, representing South Sumatra Governor, Herman Deru.

At the closing of the event, Jakarta Dispora Head, Andri Yansyah, performed two songs to entertain the student athletes competing in Popnas XVI.

They seemed to be immersed in the atmosphere full of joy, singing, and dancing together, adding to the friendship of students from the 34 participating provinces of Popnas XVI.