MEDAN, PERGATSI – Chairperson of the Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Gateball Association (PB Pergatsi) and Deputy Minister of Public Works, Diana Kusumastuti, officially inaugurated the Executive Board of the North Sumatra Indonesian Gateball Association (Pergatsi) for the 2025–2029 term at the North Sumatra Pergatsi Hall on KL Yos Sudarso Street, Medan, on Friday (June 26, 2026).
The inauguration, held in conjunction with the North Sumatra Governor's Cup Gateball Championship and the Regional Working Meeting, marked an important milestone in strengthening the organization while accelerating athlete development in preparation for the 2028 National Sports Week (PON) and future international competitions.
In her remarks, Diana emphasized that the inauguration of the new management was not merely a ceremonial event but the beginning of a major responsibility to build a stronger, more professional organization capable of producing high-achieving athletes.
According to her, the development of Pergatsi North Sumatra has shown significant progress. While the organization previously had only eight district and municipal branches, it has now expanded to 17 regional branches, providing a solid foundation for broadening gateball development across the province.
"This inauguration is not just a ceremony but the starting point of a major responsibility to strengthen the organization and enhance the quality of our human resources. I highly appreciate the remarkable progress of Pergatsi North Sumatra, which now has 17 district and municipal branches. This is a strong foundation for building future achievements," Diana said.
She explained that a strong organization requires a clear management structure, effective division of responsibilities, and a collaborative working culture. Such a system would enable more systematic development of athletes, coaches, and referees, allowing them to compete successfully at both national and international levels.
Diana also expressed her hope that North Sumatra would emerge as one of Indonesia's leading gateball powerhouses. Through high-quality provincial championships, sustainable athlete development, and thorough preparation for the 2028 PON, the province is expected to enhance its achievements while contributing athletes to represent Indonesia on the international stage.
"I hope North Sumatra will become one of the nation's leading gateball forces. Let us make this organization a welcoming home for athletes, coaches, referees, and everyone involved in gateball. Together, we can bring North Sumatra gateball to achievements that will make Indonesia proud," she affirmed.
Beyond athletic development, Diana highlighted that gateball is an inclusive sport that can be played by people of all ages, from children to senior citizens. She believes this inclusiveness presents a significant opportunity to expand public participation while fostering a sustainable pathway for sporting excellence.
Meanwhile, the newly inaugurated Chairperson of Pergatsi North Sumatra for the 2025–2029 term, Ir. Doli Sinomba Siregar, affirmed the commitment of the entire management team to carry out its mandate with full responsibility. The new administration will focus on expanding athlete development while introducing gateball to communities throughout North Sumatra.
Pergatsi North Sumatra currently has organizational branches across numerous districts and municipalities, which will serve as the foundation for nurturing athletes to compete at provincial and national levels.
"Success is not achieved through promises alone but through continuous development. Therefore, we will focus on developing athletes, coaches, and referees so that the achievements of North Sumatra gateball continue to improve," Doli said.
Doli added that the new management is also targeting stronger performances at the next National Sports Week. After winning one gold, two silver, and two bronze medals at the 21st National Sports Week (PON XXI) Aceh–North Sumatra 2024, Pergatsi North Sumatra is determined to surpass that achievement through more focused athlete development and stronger collaboration with all stakeholders.
"We want to collaborate with all parties to develop the sport of gateball. Our goal is not only to maintain our achievements but also to increase our medal tally at the National Sports Week. Sporting success cannot be achieved individually; it requires collaboration from all stakeholders," Doli stated.
The inauguration of the Pergatsi North Sumatra Executive Board for the 2025–2029 term marks the beginning of a new chapter in strengthening gateball development across the province. With the support of the national executive board, regional governments, and the collective commitment of the gateball community, Pergatsi North Sumatra remains optimistic about producing athletes who will excel not only at the national level but also bring pride to Indonesia on the international stage. (PAH/ROY)
