Indonesian Aquatic Federation Eyes International Glory with Diaspora Athletes

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Senin, 17 Maret 2025 - 19:00 WIB

Jakarta, VIVA – The Chairman of the Indonesian Aquatic Federation, Anindya Bakrie, has expressed his commitment to exploring the potential of diaspora athletes to elevate Indonesia’s aquatic achievements on the international stage.

This initiative will be pursued without neglecting the development of local athletes. 

According to him, Indonesian Aquatic Federatiom will continue prioritizing the training of homegrown talent while also opening opportunities to recruit high-quality diaspora athletes. 

Furthermore, Bakrie does not rule out the possibility of considering naturalization if it proves beneficial for the advancement of Indonesian aquatic sports. 

"We will also keep our options open and continue evaluating whether naturalization is a viable path for us or not. Once again, this does not mean neglecting the development of regional athletes," Bakrie said on Saturday (March 15). 

Indonesia enjoys a major advantage with its demographic bonus, boasting a population of approximately 281.5 million people. 

Additionally, as an archipelagic nation, Indonesia benefits from a geographic bonus, with a coastline stretching 99,093 kilometers. 

This unique combination provides a strong foundation for producing world-class aquatic athletes, both from local regions and through intensive training programs. 

Bakrie emphasized that with abundant human resources, Indonesia has a great opportunity to develop its own elite athletes. 

However, to achieve international success in a shorter timeframe, exploring various strategies—including naturalization and utilizing diaspora athletes—remains a strategic consideration. 

"We can develop our own athletes; we have about 281.5 million people. But to build momentum quickly, we need to explore all possible options," he stated. 

He also added that Indonesia’s success on the international stage would attract more support and resources for the development of aquatic sports. 

Therefore, swift and strategic actions are necessary to reach ambitious goals in the near future.

Separately, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Dito Ariotedjo, reaffirmed the government’s full support for Indonesian Aquatic Federation’s efforts in scouting and developing talent from both local regions and the diaspora. 

Minister Ariotedjo assured that the government is ready to provide facilities and training support to enhance Indonesia’s aquatic achievements on the global stage. 

The immediate goal is to perform at the highest level in the 2026 Youth Olympics, followed by the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Qualifiers.

Achieving this requires optimal athlete development, utilizing both homegrown and diaspora talent.

Currently, Indonesia already has two diaspora athletes ready to strengthen the national aquatic team: Felix Victor Iberle and Masniari Wolf.

Their presence is expected to inspire and set an example for other talented athletes scattered across the world. 

By integrating the strengths of both local and diaspora athletes, Indonesian Aquatic Federation is optimistic about raising the Indonesian flag on the global stage, bringing pride to the nation.