REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — Many Indonesian athletes of great merit are waving the Red and White on the world stage. However, many have had a difficult life after retirement. Some are forced to sell medals for the sake of survival.

That bitter reality is of serious concern to Menpora Erick Thohir. He is committed to fighting for the well-being of athletes in old age.

“We at the Ministry of Youth and Sports will work hard to realize Mr. President's vision to build Indonesian youth who love their homeland, dare to dream big and contribute to Indonesia,” said Menpora Erick.

Erick assessed that a long-term solution is needed. He made a breakthrough by creating a retirement fund program for accomplished athletes and coaches. The schedule is based on winning gold medals at the Olympic Games, Asian Games, and SEA Games.

The initial steps have started on Saturday (27/9). Menpora met Purbaya Finance Minister Yudhi Sadewa. This meeting was the first discussion to formulate a pension fund mechanism, something that has never existed in Indonesia.

This old-age guarantee is expected to motivate the younger generation to fully serve as athletes.

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