Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Doha successfully held an ASEAN Community sports event in Qatar entitled ASEAN Community Sports Day (ACSD).
The Indonesian Ambassador to Qatar, Ridwan Hassan, in a press release received in Jakarta, Wednesday, said that the ASEAN Community Sports Day event was held to strengthen the spirit of brotherhood among ASEAN communities in Qatar and introduce ASEAN culture to Qatari residents.
“This activity is Indonesia’s effort to strengthen the spirit of brotherhood among ASEAN communities in Qatar. More than that, ACSD is also our effort to promote ASEAN to the public in Qatar,” said Ridwan.
The activity, which took place on December 1 2023, was attended by seven ASEAN countries, namely Indonesia (host), Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.
The activity was held at the Sports and Wellness Center, University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST). The opening of ACSD was a lively event attended by seven ASEAN Ambassadors in Qatar.
Also present was the Chancellor of UDST accompanied by officials from the local Ministry of Culture.
The ASEAN Community is one of the largest communities in Qatar. The number of ASEAN communities in Qatar is currently approaching 300,000 people with the Filipino community being the largest, followed by Indonesia.
ACSD 2023 was the first to be held and immediately received an extraordinary response. Around 232 players were involved and more than 500 spectators participated in enlivening this tournament.
Those who come to ACSD not only to provide support for their favorite team but also to enjoy the food bazaar from ASEAN countries.
“This is one of the biggest celebrations ever held by the ASEAN community in Qatar. Indonesia is proud to be the host. This is not the work of the Indonesian Embassy alone, but is a collective work with the Indonesian people in Qatar.” said the Executive of the Social and Cultural Affairs Function of the Indonesian Embassy in Doha and the Person in Charge of Activities, Ali Murtado.
The tournament competes in various sports such as football, badminton, volleyball, basketball, table tennis and tug of war. Indonesia emerged as the overall champion by winning three gold medals, including from the most prestigious branch of football.
Source: ANTARA News