Erick Thohir, a member of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), expressed astonishment at the grandeur of the Indonesia Arena, showcasing the government’s unwavering support for sports. The inauguration of the Indonesia Arena, set to host the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 from August 25th, is seen as a testament to Indonesia’s commitment to advancing both the economic and competitive aspects of the sport.
President Joko Widodo officially opened the Indonesia Arena within the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) complex on Monday, August 7, 2023. Attending the inauguration of the indoor arena, capable of accommodating 16,000 spectators, were several dignitaries including Muhajir Effendy, the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture; Basuki Hadimuljono, the Minister of Public Works and Public Housing; Sandiaga Uno, the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy; Bahlil Lahadalia, the Investment Minister; and Dito Ariotedjo, the Minister of Youth and Sports.
Erick Thohir, a basketball enthusiast and also the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, reflected on the remarkable achievement, “As someone who has played and even owned basketball clubs, both domestically and internationally, I never imagined we would have such a magnificent basketball arena.”
He continued, “While this arena can host various sports events and concerts, as President Jokowi mentioned, as a basketball enthusiast, I’m extremely proud that we have this largest indoor arena.”
Emphasizing the significance of the Rp 640 billion investment in the arena’s construction, Thohir highlighted its potential impact on sports and the creative economy. He stressed that the arena’s establishment should have a lasting effect on various industries, including sports and the creative sector.
“The establishment of this arena should have a sustainable impact on sports and other industries like MICE. Sports achievements must improve, especially in basketball and other disciplines, as well as the creative economy in entertainment, arts, and performances,” Thohir explained.
Addressing the forthcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup, Thohir called upon the organizing committee to harness the momentum of the new arena and put in the hard work needed to ensure the success of the global basketball event.
“I hope that the President’s inauguration will inspire the organizing committee to hold the world championship successfully and provide the best hospitality for the basketball stars,” he concluded.
The inauguration event was further enlivened by celebrity exhibition matches and musical performances by Cokelat band and singer Wika Salim.
Indonesia Arena was constructed as one of the venues for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, scheduled from August 25th to September 10th. Indonesia is honored to host two groups in the tournament: Group G (Iran, Spain, Ivory Coast, Brazil) and Group H (Canada, Latvia, Lebanon, France).
