PBPI National Working Meeting Creates Momentum for Achievement in 2026

PBPI In National Working Meeting, Sports Focus Enters National Sports Grand Design Program (DBON)

Viralterkini.id, JAKARTA – The Indonesian Padel Association (PBPI) officially held the 2025 National Working Meeting (Rakernas) for the first time at the Grandhika Iskandarsyah Hotel, South Jakarta, Thursday (4/11/2025).

This activity was opened directly by the General Chairperson (Ketum) of PBPI, Galih Dimuntur Kartasasmita, and was attended by representatives from 15 Indonesian Padel Provincial Administrators (Pengprov).

This first National Working Meeting is an important momentum for PBPI to report on the achievements of 2025, evaluate the journey of national and international achievements, as well as map out strategic programs towards 2026. One of the main focuses is the opportunity for padel to be included in the National Sports Grand Design Program (DBON).

PBPI Chairman Galih Dimuntur emphasized that this first National Working Meeting contained long and focused discussions.

“Because this is the first National Working Meeting, the discussion was very long. There were 15 provinces present, and we submitted all the 2025 activity reports – starting from the Sirnas that have been undertaken to the achievements in Doha. All were submitted to the provincial administrators,” said Galih.

He explained that the 2026 program was of great concern, especially facing the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan

“Our main highlight is the Nagoya Asian Games. Apart from that, there are several other programs that we have to prepare carefully,” he said.

Galih emphasized the importance of continuous readiness for the Indonesian Padel National Team. The team that has been formed will again undergo the national selection to increase its strength.

PBPI estimates that there will be four events competed in Nagoya – two additional events in the women’s team – so that the number of athletes who must be prepared will be greater.

“If it is true that there are four numbers, that means there will be an additional four athletes from the Doha team. The total could reach 20 athletes,” said Galih.

Galih also explained the preparation agenda for the national team that had been prepared, including plans for trials and training camp (TC).

“There are many programs for the national team, such as trials. When I went abroad yesterday, many countries invited friendly matches—Japan, Saudi, and even several European countries such as Slovenia,” he said.

“Next year there will also be events in Thailand that can be used for preparation. There are at least six FIP events that can be participated in,” he added.

Regarding the Asian Games competition, Galih said the power map would be more dynamic.

“The competitive map is similar to Doha, but there are countries we haven’t met yet, such as Taiwan, Hong Kong and Malaysia, which have just joined. The map of power has definitely changed.”
The men’s team must be improved, the women’s team must be maintained and even improved. “Yesterday’s achievements have made other countries wary of Indonesia,” he emphasized again.

Opportunity to Enter DBON: “We are Ready to Compete Healthily Through Achievement”

Responding to the opportunity for padel to enter DBON, Galih said that this process was under the authority of the Minister of Youth and Sports.

“Yesterday we had a hearing and it was explained at length. If I’m not mistaken, the President has instructed the Minister of Youth and Sports that DBON is dynamic – there are promotions and relegations depending on performance,” he said.

“I hope padel can enter if next year we can prove our achievements. This is healthy competition. We don’t expect anyone to come out, but we want to show that padel is worthy,” he added.

He emphasized that padel is not just a trendy sport.

“Even though it is considered a fomo sport, we have proven ourselves with achievements,” he said.

2026 Targets and Opportunities for the Olympics

Galih emphasized that he did not want to put excessive pressure on athletes, but remained optimistic.

“I don’t want to put pressure, but I believe our athletes can become outstanding sports. Next year there will be lots of opportunities—in ASEAN, Asia and even around the world. There is great potential,” he explained.

He also touched on long-term opportunities for the Olympics.

“When we talk about the Olympics, we know the target is 2032. Qatar will also include this branch. What is not certain is Los Angeles 2028 – whether the inclusion of padel in Nagoya can be brought to LA. If so, Indonesia has a big chance because we have spoken with KOI and have received a membership form to take part in the Asian Games,” concluded Galih.

PBPI’s first National Working Meeting is the first step to strengthen the foundation of the organization, improve achievements, as well as pave the way for Indonesian padel to a bigger international stage. (ma)