Indonesia partners with NYU to bolster national sports industry

Photo Caption: Indonesia's Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir (left) signs an MoU with a representative from New York University to explore collaboration on sports science and development.

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ministry of Youth and Sports has partnered with New York University (NYU) to strengthen collaborative research aimed at developing Indonesia's sports industry. 

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir announced via social media on Thursday that the collaboration is part of the government's broader effort to build a modern knowledge-based national sports ecosystem. 

Through this partnership, the ministry seeks to leverage NYU's academic expertise and extensive experience in sports research, industry management, and policy development to advance Indonesia's sports sector. 

According to the minister, Indonesia possesses immense potential to become a central hub for sports development in Southeast Asia. 

This potential is supported by the country's massive population, growing public enthusiasm for sports activities, and an increasing frequency of international and domestic sporting events hosted by the nation. 

"It is time for sports to no longer be viewed merely as an expense, but rather as an engine of growth," Thohir remarked. 

He expressed optimism that the sports sector could generate employment, attract investment, drive innovation, bolster sports tourism, and ultimately stimulate the national economy. 

He noted that the industry's growth can be realized through organizing competitive events, optimizing sports facility management, and advancing sports technology alongside human capital development. 

Furthermore, targeted research within the sector will assist the government in formulating precise policies and enhancing the competitiveness of Indonesian athletes on the global stage. 

The minister envisions that this bilateral collaboration will cultivate a new generation of sports leaders, foster innovation, and elevate Indonesia's standing in the international sports arena.