Jakarta Gymnastics 2025 Officially Underway: World Stage Under Shadow of Israel Issue

Jakarta has made new history. For the first time, the Artistic Gymnastics World Championship is being held in Southeast Asia. Taking place at the Indonesia Arena on Sunday, October 19, 2025, this prestigious event titled Jakarta Gymnastics 2025 marks a major milestone for the nation's gymnastics.

Yet behind the world stage's vibrancy, the championship atmosphere was once colored by the Indonesian government's refusal to grant visas to Israeli athletes. Nonetheless, this sports festival opened with full spirit and a message of peace.

Jakarta Considered Ideal City

International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) President Morinari Watanabe praised Jakarta as the perfect host. In his speech, he stated Indonesia deserves appreciation for delivering a world-class event amid global dynamics.

“Jakarta, a city rich in culture with warm, dynamic people, is the perfect city to host the World Championships,” Watanabe declared at the opening of the 2025 Jakarta Artistic Gymnastics World Championship.

He also commended the Indonesian Gymnastics Federation (FGI) led by Ita Yuliati for their dedicated efforts in organizing the championship.

“Your dedication and professionalism are truly inspiring,” Watanabe said.

For Ita Yuliati, this event transcends competition, symbolizing Indonesia's resolve to shine on the global sports stage.

“This is Indonesian Gymnastics' hopes and dreams realized—a milestone in our journey to cultivate and energize gymnastics more extensively across Indonesia,” Ita emphasized.

Over 400 athletes from various nations attended, though not all delegations could compete due to international political issues. Ita stressed that sportsmanship must remain a unifying force amid differences.

“So they always remember no dream is too high, and no movement too simple to perform on the world stage,” she stated.

Remembering Naufal Takdir Al Bari

Amid a poignant atmosphere, Ita invited all attendees to give a final salute to the late young athlete Naufal Takdir Al Bari, who passed away in Penza, Russia, on September 25, 2025.

“Here once grew the hope of our young gymnast Naufal Takdir Al Bari, who couldn't fulfill his dream to compete at this world championship. Yet Naufal's spirit lives on as part of our collective spirit,” Ita concluded.(Antara)