Heaptalk, Jakarta — The Traditional Sports and Recreation Festival 2023 in East Kutai was officially opened by Regent Ardiansyah Sulaiman which took place at Helipad Field, Bukit Pelangi Office Square, North Sangatta (11/05).
This festival aims to promote and maintain the diversity of traditional sports and recreation which is an important part of the local culture of East Kutai. The Regent expressed his commitment to the festival and plans to promote the event in the future. “God willing, this will become our annual agenda. Hopefully, this can be programmed in the coming years and beyond,” said Ardiansyah in North Sangatta (11/05).
He emphasized that sporting events do not only apply to sports organized by the East Kutai Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) but also by the East Kutai Indonesian Community Recreational Sports Committee (KORMI). As the parent of traditional sports and recreation, East Kutai KORMI also has a significant role in holding sports activities in the regencies, province, and nationally.
“Thank God, East Kutai, which yesterday represented East Kalimantan, won 11 gold medals for KORMI and I have promised to give a bonus. Hopefully in the future, this month too, God willing, we will give the bonus,” voiced Ardiansyah.
Passing on traditional sports culture to young generation
According to him, traditional sports are not only a sport but also recreation. This activity is not only physically healthy but also provides an exhilarating experience. He said, “On the one hand, our bodies can be fit, in the sense of being truly healthy. On the other hand, we can enjoy the activity. These are the sports that our ancestors used to offer.”
Apart from that, Ardiansyah emphasized the importance of passing on traditional sports culture to the younger generation. He hopes that current and future children can understand and appreciate the traditional sports passed down by their predecessors. Therefore, we ask our children today to be given the opportunity to attend. Being present means also joining in,” Ardiansyah added.
Further, the spirit of preserving and appreciating traditional sports is part of East Kutai’s cultural identity. Through this festival, the Regency Government aims to strengthen its cultural values. Apart from competitions, the opening of this festival also presented dozens of MSME culinary stands and cultural entertainment, such as traditional dance and music.
“The Traditional Sports and Recreation Festival in East Kutai is a clear example of how sport and culture can come together in a lively event. With a combination of diverse sports and traditional culture, this festival not only celebrates local heritage but also strengthens regional identity and a sense of unity within the East Kutai Community,” concluded Ardiansyah. (Translated by Sinta)
