Indonesian Journalists Kick Off Regional Sports Week to Select National Competitors

The Regional Journalists Sports Week (Porwada) for the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) province officially commenced in Mataram City. This event serves as a crucial platform for discovering and nurturing the best journalist athletes from NTB, preparing them to compete at the national level in the upcoming National Journalists Sports Week (Porwanas) in Lampung in 2027.

Ahmad Ikliluddin, the Chairman of PWI NTB, expressed deep appreciation for the enthusiastic participation of media professionals at the opening ceremony. He highlighted that Porwada is more than just a local competition; it is a strategic initiative to unearth top talent. "Through Porwada PWI NTB 2026, we hope to produce accomplished journalist athletes from NTB who are ready to be sent and compete in the National Journalists Sports Week (Porwanas) in Lampung next year," Ikliluddin stated.

The provincial government of NTB, represented by the Head of the Communication and Informatics Office, Ahsanul Khalik, emphasized the strategic importance of the press. He noted that the media has historically played a vital role in national struggles and continues to be essential in overseeing development. "The spirit of struggle requires the media today to remain responsible and independent in overseeing NTB's development process. The NTB Provincial Government has a strategic connection with media professionals towards a prosperous and global NTB," Khalik remarked.

Support for the event also came from the Mataram City government and the University of Mataram. Lalu Martawang, representing the Mayor of Mataram, expressed pride in Mataram hosting Porwada, viewing it as a significant opportunity for journalists to connect. The University of Mataram, providing the venue for the opening and medal ceremonies, welcomed the hundreds of journalists and expressed hope that its sports facilities would facilitate the smooth running of the competitions. The opening ceremony, attended by approximately 300 participants and officials from across NTB, was held at the University of Mataram's Sport Center.