PRIME NEWS POST

JAKARTA — Public enthusiasm for sports and fitness continues to show promising growth. The Indonesia Fitness Festival (IFF), a multi-sport event that brings together athletes and sports communities from diverse backgrounds, drew approximately 980 to 1,000 participants and athletes, marking a successful edition of the annual gathering.

Embracing the spirit of open competition, the Indonesia Fitness Festival serves as a platform for athletes to showcase their skills, build networks, and advance toward higher-level competitions. The presence of public figure Deddy Corbuzier further boosted the event’s profile.

Founder of the Indonesia Fitness Festival, Canggih Fitrah, explained the festival was born from a simple idea: to provide every athlete the broadest opportunity to compete, regardless of federation affiliation.

“All athletes from any federation are welcome. Our principle is simple: if you want to compete, register and join. We want every athlete to have an equal chance,” Canggih stated.

Preparing Indonesian Athletes for the International Stage

Beyond domestic competition, the Indonesia Fitness Festival envisions helping Indonesian athletes compete on the global stage. Outstanding performers will receive recommendations to participate in international championships at no cost, with potential destinations including Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia.

This opportunity, Canggih said, is vital for athletes to gain experience, improve their skills, and bring honor to the nation.

Five Years of Progress — Founder Urges Greater Government Attention

Despite strong turnout, Canggih expressed hope that independent sports organizers would receive greater government recognition. The festival has run for five years entirely on personal funds and sponsorships, with no government financial support — even as it contributes to national public health goals.

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“We hope the government becomes more aware of events like ours. We operate on private funds and sponsors, yet indirectly we are helping the government promote healthy living through sports,” Canggih noted.

He emphasized that athletes, fitness communities, and wellness influencers are powerful messengers, reaching broad audiences — especially young people — through digital platforms to inspire healthier lifestyles.

Sports as a Social Movement Against Drugs

Most importantly, Canggih affirmed that sports goes beyond physical achievement; it is a strategic tool for youth character building.

“Sports communities can be positive environments that foster discipline, solidarity, and productivity — and serve as a powerful alternative to keep young people away from drug abuse,” he said.

The Indonesia Fitness Festival aspires to be more than a competition — it is a social movement toward a healthier, more active society. Canggih called on the government, business sector, and stakeholders to collaborate with independent sports organizers.

“Do not let sports organizers walk alone. We want these activities to grow, so more athletes get to compete, and more young people choose sports as their path to achievement,” Canggih concluded.

Building athletic excellence, he added, is not the responsibility of individuals alone — it requires a supportive ecosystem and the commitment of society as a whole.