Sustainable Indonesian and ASEAN Sports Policy and Development

Abstract This manuscript aims to explore key issues in formulating sustainable and progressive Indonesian sports policies, aligning them with global trends and examining their implications for sports development in ASEAN countries. The core content focuses on Indonesia’s sports policy evolution, analysing past experiences, current conditions and future challenges in the context of global sports trends, with particular relevance to ASEAN. A descriptive analysis method is used, drawing from policy documents, Indonesia’s direct experiences in designing and implementing sports policies, and theoretical studies, including comparative practices among ASEAN countries, especially concerning the SEA Games. The findings highlight the necessity of a paradigm shift from ‘development of sport’ to a broader ‘development through sport,’ and from purely sport-focused outcomes to broader societal impacts. Embracing and practising this new paradigm is crucial, especially in organizing regional events like the SEA Games. Such events should not only foster cohesion among ASEAN countries but also serve as a source of community inspiration and promote the growth of elite sports on the world stage. Additionally, the manuscript underscores the need for standardized sports development across ASEAN in areas such as educational sports, community sports and sports for people with disabilities. Creating consistent standards will support inclusion and enhance the competitiveness of ASEAN athletes globally. Indonesia’s experience thus offers valuable lessons for the formulation, implementation and future advancement of integrated sports policies and cooperation in ASEAN.