Jayapura – The Papua Provincial Government officially released as many as 98 student athletes who will represent the region in the XVII National Student Sports Week (POPNAS) and the XIn National Student Paralympic Week (PEPARPENAS) in 2025 in Jakarta.
The release of the contingent took place in Jayapura and was directly led by the Assistant I Secretary of Papua, Yohanes Walilo, representing the Acting Governor of Papua. In his speech, Yohanes expressed his pride in the spirit and determination of the young athletes who will compete to bring the good name of Papua at the national level.
“We are all proud to see the spirit of Papuan children who are ready to make the name of the region fragrant. We target so that the Papuan contingent can penetrate the top five national in obtaining POPNAS and PEPARPENAS medals this year,” said Yohanes Walilo.
He emphasized, the Papua Provincial Government provides full support for all athletes and officials, both in terms of physical readiness and departure facilities. Yohanes also reminded the importance of upholding sportsmanship and discipline during the competition.
“Victory is indeed a goal, but the values of honesty, unyielding spirit, and sportsmanship are things that must always be held by every Papuan athlete,” he added.
The government hopes that the participation of Papuan student athletes in POPNAS and PEPARPENAS 2025 can be a long-term development momentum for the potential of regional sports, as well as strengthening the character of the young Papuan generation who are tough and accomplished.
