Indonesian Police Launch E-Sports Cup to Cultivate Digital Talent

The Indonesian National Police have officially opened the E-Sports Kapolri Cup 2026, aiming to cultivate digital talent and provide a platform for young Indonesians to excel in the rapidly growing esports scene. The competition, held at the Indonesia Arena in Jakarta, operates under the tagline "Dream to Become," signaling its intent to transform hobbies into achievements.

Unlike typical sports tournaments, the Kapolri Cup 2026 is open to the general public, not just police personnel. Participants registered through regional police units, progressing through a tiered system to reach the national level. This approach positions the police as facilitators, creating opportunities for public engagement and talent discovery. The event saw a massive turnout of 35,936 participants from across all 34 provinces, highlighting the significant enthusiasm for esports among the youth and the vast digital talent pool within Indonesia.

To build a comprehensive esports ecosystem, the National Police are collaborating with the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi), the Indonesia Esports Association (IESPA), and other relevant ministries and agencies. This collaborative effort underscores the evolving perception of esports, moving beyond mere entertainment to become a recognized avenue for digital talent development, competitive sports, creative industries, and the digital economy. It also serves as a positive space for youth interaction.

National Police Deputy Chief Commissioner General Pol. Dedi Prasetyo emphasized the police's commitment to engaging with youth in spaces relevant to their lives. "Activities once viewed primarily as hobbies have now grown into widely recognized arenas for expression, competition, and achievement," he stated. Prasetyo added that the police's involvement extends beyond security, focusing on building closer communication with young people and providing avenues for their growth within the digital landscape.