goodmorningpapua.com – The excitement of the 77th Anniversary of Indonesian Independence was felt in Atsj, one of the districts in the Asmat Regency, South Papua Province.
Thousands of people from various ethnicities flocked to the concrete flyover to take part in the cultural carnival and various competitions organized by the Atsj District Government.
Even the Regent of Asmat, Elisa Kambu had to stay far from Agats, the capital of the Asmat Regency, to visit the Atsj District to open a typical 17’s cultural carnival and badminton competition.
A Head of Atsj District, Akbar Mustarim said that at this time the community really needed people’s entertainment. “During the pandemic, people are restrained, they can’t do anything,” said Akbar.
Akbar admitted that he was not afraid of crowds, because 80 percent of the residents had undergone the Covid-19 vaccination. “80 have been vaccinated, so it’s safe,” he said explaining the carnival and various competitions at Atsj as part of a lively series of the 77th Indonesian Independence Day.
Meanwhile, Asmat Regent Elisa Kambu appreciated government officials and the community in Atsj District. “Congratulations on celebrating the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia,” said Elisa Kambu in front of the public.
He requested the badminton competition participants to maintain sportsmanship. “This competition is an opportunity to channel talents and hobbies. Show that you are professional athletes,” said Elisa, who is also the Chairperson of PBSI Asmat.
For him, coaching badminton athletes should be carried out to remote areas. “The purpose of sport for young people is to find superior seeds to foster. The guidance is necessary, we have participated in regional events,” he said.
The local government has supported a number of indigenous Papuan children who excel in badminton. “We have sent several Asmat children to Yogyakarta. They are there being trained to become professional players,” said Elisa.
It is known that the cultural carnival was attended by people from 6 villages in Atsj District. Participants walk around the city of Atsj wearing traditional Indonesian clothing.