Staying Vigilant Amid Festivities

Based on the various matches that have already taken place in a number of arenas, Papuans were seen to be very enthusiastic in welcoming and watching these sporting events.

Kompas/Wawan H Prabowo

Residents packed the stands of the PON Papua 2021 soccer match between West Java and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) at the Mandala Stadium, Jayapura, Papua, Thursday (30/9/2021). Many viewers have not implemented health protocols to prevent the transmission of Covid-19.

The enthusiasm of Papuans to spectate the 2021 National Games (PON) in Papua amid the COVID-19 pandemic should be accompanied with discipline and strict implementation of health protocols.

For the first time in Indonesia’s history, the National Games are taking place in Papua. This quadrennial multi-sport event will showcase 37 sports, 56 disciplines and 679 matches, with the participation of approximately 6,300 athletes from 34 provinces across the country. The competition is being held in four areas, namely Jayapura city, Jayapura regency, Mimika regency and Merauke regency.