Jayapura — The excitement of youth and sportsmanship filled the Mandala Jayapura Stadium, Saturday night (21/6), when the Papuan Regional Police officially closed the SMA/SMK Student Athletics Championship in Jayapura City. This activity is one of the series of commemorations of the 79th Bhayangkara Day which was initiated as a form of the closeness of the National Police with the community, especially the young generation of Papua.
The closing ceremony took place from afternoon to night, attended by hundreds of participants, officials, and invited guests. Present on that occasion, the Regional Supervision Inspector of the Papua Regional Police, Chief Commissioner of Police Jeremias Rontini, S.I.K., who officially closed the championship. Also present were the Head of the Jayapura City Youth and Sports Office Rocky Bebena, S.Pd., M.Pd., Head of KONI Papua Province Kenius Kogoya, Head of PASI Papua Province Maikel Kambuaya, as well as school principals and Papuan sports figures.
In his speech, Chief Commissioner of Police Jeremias Rontini emphasized that Bhayangkara Day is not only a celebration of the National Police institution, but an important momentum to build a close relationship with the community through positive activities such as sports.
“Polri is present not only as a security guard, but also as a mover of the spirit of togetherness, discipline, and sportsmanship. This championship is a platform for the younger generation to form character, grow integrity, and make achievements,” he said.
He also appreciated the dedication of the students who have fought in this championship, and invited them to continue to pursue the world of athletics as a path for self-development and career. Kombes Pol Rontini said that Papua has been known as the national barn of athletes in various sports, including athletics.
“Papua has given birth to great athletes such as Melianus Mofu, Eklefina Rumayauw, Yanes Raubaba, to Franklin Worumi. They are a real inspiration that Papuan children are able to compete at the national and even international levels,” he added.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere of Mandala Stadium that night was full of enthusiasm. The cheers of the audience, the parade of athletes, to the presentation of medals and trophies for the winners became the sweet closing of the competition that has been going on for the past few days.
This championship is also an event for the selection and strengthening of young Papuan athletic talents who will later be prepared to participate in various provincial and national competitions.
