JAYAPURA – National Paralympic Week XVI Papua 2021, officially opened by vice president Ma'ruf Amin, at Jayapura Mandala Stadium, Friday (5/11/2021) night.

National Paralympic Week, according to the Vice President, is a very special event and not just a sporting event, but a proof of the spirit of equality among the nation's children.

"Therefore, PON XX was a tremendous success. I am also sure this National Paralympic Week will be successful because the people of Papua are sports lovers and warm hosts," he explained.

He also said, National Paralympic Week is a special event because that's when many athletes prove themselves with their physical limitations.

"The point of this National Paralympic Week is a momentum for Indonesia to show the world that all citizens have equality," he explained.

Similarly, the Chairman of National Paralympic Week XVI Papua Lukas Enembe who is also the Governor of Papua. According to him, National Paralympic Week XVI is the stage of equality where everyone in this country has the same opportunity to make the name of the nation.

"National Paralympic is not a complementary event of PON Papua. It is the same and parallel containers. So that we as the Host also prepare this event with a sincere heart and accompanied by high spirit," he said.

It is still said Lukas, Papua Province is very happy, if it is able to provide a friendly arena to athletes with disabilities. Therefore, he hopes that all athletes of National Paralympic Week XVI 2021 can enjoy every second in the land of Papua.

"I also invite all people in Indonesia, all leaders both in the region and in the center to provide great space and equal opportunities for athletes with disabilities"

"They are strong human beings that we must help to be able to step together towards the various achievements that will lead this nation to progress and empowerment," he concluded.

Indonesia's National Paralympic Committee (NPCI) said about 3,609 athletes would be involved in the event.

They will compete in 12 sports held in two regions, namely Jayapura City and Jayapura Regency.

Thousands of athletes will compete for about 2,812 medals consisting of 861 gold, 861 silver and 1,090 bronze contested in 640 race numbers. ***