Jokowi promises to develop soccer in Papua

JAYAPURA. Presidential candidate Joko “Jokowi” Widodo says he wants to develop soccer in Papua as it already has produced exceptional talents.

Speaking before hundreds of supporters at Waringin Sports Center in Jayapura, Papua, during a campaign visit on Thursday, he praised Papuan soccer players who had succeeded on the national stage.

“[National Team players] Titus Bonai, Elie Aiboy and Boaz Solossa are exceptional talents. If we concentrate [on developing] Papuan soccer I believe we can be the best,” Jokowi said to the cheering audience.

He believed that better talent management would encourage Papuan youngsters aspiring to become professional players to develop their skills.

“Papuan talents have exceptional skills, physical durability and courage. Papua produces real players,” he said. (Sita W Dewi)