Papua Governor Lukas Enembe has expressed "immense pride" at the Papua contingent emerging as the champions of the XVI Papua National Paralympic Week (Peparnas).

The governor asked all athletes and officials from the province to defend the victory and appreciate every struggle they underwent, spokesperson for the Governor of Papua, Muhammad Rifai Darus, said here on Saturday.

"In addition, Governor Enembe thanked all contingents from the other provinces who had competed fiercely, while still maintaining their sportsmanship highly," he remarked.

Enembe also offered words of encouragement to athletes who did not win any medals, saying that a humble defeat is better than a victory which strengthens the ego, Darus said.

"Furthermore, Governor Enembe said that the implementation of XVI Papua Peparnas proves that there is a well-developed synergy between the central and regional governments," the spokesperson stated.

The acceleration of sports infrastructure development that also provides disability-friendly facilities shows the serious attempts of the provincial government to make Papua deserving of the title of ‘Province of Sports’, he added.

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"The event has given many great, unique, and interesting experiences to all participants," Darus said.

Enembe expressed the hope that the participants will spread stories of the beauty of Papua throughout Indonesia and recalled President Joko Widodo's statement describing Papua is a small paradise on Earth, he added.

Furthermore, the governor also lauded all Papuan people and the organizing committee for successfully implementing the national event and showcasing the true face of Papua to other regions’ representatives, Darus said.

"Please continue to sow love, create a sense of peace, and move forward to realize a Rising, Independent, and Prosperous Papua with Justice," he added.

At the national sporting event for people with disabilities, Papua collected 306 medals—127 gold, 86 silver, and 93 bronze—to emerge as the champion.

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Pewarta: KR-UY
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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