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New Indonesian Olympic chief focuses on bid for 2032 Olympics
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Newly appointed Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI) chief Raja Sapta Oktohari (center) shakes hands with his predecessor, Erick Thohir (right), as new KOI deputy chief Warih Sadono (left) looks on during a photo session with the press on the sidelines of KOI congress in Jakarta on Wednesday. Okto will lead the committee until 2023. (Antara/Hafidz Mubarak A)
R
aja Sapta “Okto” Oktohari officially took the helm of the Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI) on Wednesday and has immediately set his focus on helping the nation make a bid to host the 2032 Summer Olympic Games.
As the only candidate, Okto, the son of Hanura party politician Oesman Sapta Odang, made his way to the post without any hassle as he was elected by acclamation during Wednesday’s national congress in Jakarta.
Okto received the full support of his predecessor, Erick Thohir, to take the baton. Both Okto and Erick are businessmen known for having a keen interest in sports.
Upon being officially awarded the position, Okto said his new role would not be easy as he faced several serious tasks, including helping the country win the 2032 Olympic bid.
“We must fight during the [Olympics bidding] process as the decision will be determined at the 2024 Olympics [in Paris]. Aside from winning as many gold medals as possible at the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympics, we also have to captivate the Olympics’ stakeholders so they put their trust in us to host the 2032 Olympics,” said Okto.
He also highlighted the country’s preparations ahead of the Philippines’ Southeast Asian Games, which will be held in November and December.
“We are entering a transition period, as we’ll have the inauguration of our President [Joko “Jokowi” Widodo for his second term] on Oct. 20. Shortly after, we’re expecting to have a new youth and sports minister.
