Indonesian Paralympians proud of Beijing, look forward 2012

Source: Xinhua | 09-16-2008 13:23

JAKARTA, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- Despite the failure in Beijing 2008, Indonesian Paralympians look forward to London 2012 Paralympic Games with an improvement.

"At least, one bronze medal for the coming Paralympic in London. We are sure of it. Therefore, we should start our preparation much better that what we had done before for Beijing," secretary general of Indonesian National Paralympic Committee (NPC) Dati Sosiawan Putra told Xinhua on Tuesday.

The 42-year old Sosiawan, visually-impaired chess player did not deny the problem of lacking funds for Indonesian sport development, particularly for paralympic. Indonesian NPC do not receive regular funds from Indonesian government through Indonesian sport and youth ministry.

"The fund we receive from the ministry was accidental. It was based on the proposal we submitted. What we expect, of course, regular budget for paralympic development," said silver medalist at Asean Para Games III Manila, Philippines 2005, and bronze medalist at Fespic Games X Thailand 2007 for chess-board games.

He mentioned seriousness and earnerst efforts of Chinese government and the people. The result, according to Sosiawan, the Beijing Paralympic Games was the most excellent world sports event in the world he had ever felt through his life.

"I am really proud of China, and the people. How they pay much attention to Paralympic. All TV stations belong to China willingly broadcast all games. Volunteers also work hard, showing their earnest for the success of Paralympic and Olympic Games," he said.

Editor:Xiong Qu