Indonesia is gearing up for the Paris Olympics 2024, and the Global Indonesia Professionals’ Association (GIPA) is at the forefront of exploring the country’s dynamic paths in sports and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives. Anindya Bakrie, Indonesia’s Chef de Mission for the Paris Olympics, emphasized the significance of Indonesia’s participation during a recent GIPA event, the Global Connect Series (GCS). The “Developing Indonesia for a more sustainable and healthy future” event provided insights into Indonesia’s strategic positioning for the Olympics and its future ESG endeavors.
Bakrie highlighted the global significance of this year’s Olympics, being the first major international event post-COVID-19. With Indonesia, having recently concluded its elections, has a unique opportunity for unity, particularly in supporting the country’s athletes. The GCS event, hosted by GIPA, featured prominent figures such as Hamdan Hamedan, Special Advisor to the Minister of Youth and Sports and Ferro Ferizka Aryananda, Executive Director at Pijar Foundation.
Bakrie aims to elevate sports in Indonesian society by making athletes national heroes and encouraging increased government investment in sports. He pointed out the potential for Indonesian athletes to excel in new Olympic sports like surfing, skateboarding, breakdancing, and speed climbing.
Hamedan emphasized the need for more significant investment in sports, citing Indonesia’s comparatively low allocation of GDP to sports compared to other nations. The event also addressed sustainability and ESG opportunities in Indonesia. Bakrie expressed optimism about Indonesia’s ESG prospects, citing the country’s rich biodiversity as a source of clean energy opportunities.
Ferizka echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities before Indonesia’s demographic bonus expires in 2034. GIPA, representing Indonesian professionals globally, is actively engaged in initiatives to contribute to Indonesia’s vision for 2045.
Hilmi Kartasasmita, GIPA’s Head of Indonesia, announced plans for an event in Paris during the Olympics to engage with the diaspora community and further support Indonesia’s development goals. As Indonesia navigates its path to the Paris Olympics and beyond, GIPA continues to play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and advancing Indonesia’s interests on the global stage.
