JAKARTA,Naratara.com – The Indonesian Sepak Takraw Association (PSTI) has launched a national referee training program at Jakarta State University (Universitas Negeri Jakarta/UNJ) in East Jakarta. The five-day course, which began on Thursday (July 16), runs through July 20 and brings together 56 participants from across Indonesia.
The program is designed to enhance the quality and professionalism of sepak takraw officiating while preparing the next generation of certified referees to support the continued development of the sport in Indonesia.
PSTI Chairman H. Surianto, S.Ag., M.Md., said the demand for qualified and certified referees has increased as the standard of domestic and international competitions continues to improve.
“The primary objective of this training is to assess and improve the quality of Indonesia’s sepak takraw referees. Continuous referee development is essential to ensure we have a strong pool of professional officials for future competitions,” Surianto said.
He noted that the strong participation from provinces across the country reflects the growing need for referee education and certification. Given the enthusiastic response, PSTI is considering making the training program an annual event.
“We hope our referees will not only officiate national competitions but also earn opportunities to serve at international tournaments,” he added.
ASTAF Supports Referee Development
Asian Sepak Takraw Federation (ASTAF) President Datuk Abdul Halim Kader BBM welcomed the initiative, describing it as a concrete follow-up to discussions held between ASTAF and PSTI several months ago on strengthening Indonesia’s refereeing system.
“This five-day referee training program is the result of our previous discussions with PSTI. It demonstrates the federation’s commitment to turning plans into concrete action,” Abdul Halim said.
He also praised PSTI for involving representatives from 27 provinces, saying the initiative would help expand the country’s pool of qualified referees.
According to Abdul Halim, referees must not only master the latest Laws of the Game but also uphold integrity, professionalism, and responsibility while officiating matches.
Participants Welcome the Program
One of the participants, Asep Prabowo from Medan, said the training had provided valuable knowledge and practical experience.
“I am very pleased to be part of this program. The training materials have helped improve my knowledge and confidence as a sepak takraw referee,” Asep said.
He added that meeting fellow referees from different regions provided an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and learn from one another.
Throughout the five-day course, participants receive instruction on the latest competition rules, match management, decision-making techniques, and the physical and mental preparation required for officiating.
PSTI hopes the program will produce a new generation of qualified referees capable of officiating at both national and international sepak takraw competitions.(red)
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