SEAToday.com, Jakarta - Newly appointed Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Taufik Hidayat, has pledged to prioritize the improvement of Indonesia's youth and sports achievements. Officially inaugurated by President Prabowo on Monday (10/21), Hidayat will be working alongside Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo in the Merah Putih Cabinet.

Following President Prabowo's directive to elevate Indonesia's athletic performance, Hidayat expressed his commitment to achieving this goal.

"President Prabowo has instructed me to further improve Indonesia's sports achievements. Just like I won the gold medal at the Athens Olympics, and this year we won two gold medals, I hope we can achieve even more in the future," Hidayat said, as quoted from the official Kemenpora website.

The 2004 Athens Olympic gold medalist in badminton is determined to contribute to the advancement of youth and sports, aligning with Minister Dito's vision.

"The main focus is to be more concentrated on sports, as the Minister is also very passionate about sports. We need to determine the best way forward," he added.

Hidayat emphasized the importance of coordination, stating that he will meet with Minister Dito to discuss their responsibilities in youth and sports development.

"I haven't met with Pak Dito yet, but I will do so soon. I will follow his directions. I don't want to get ahead of myself," he explained.

Before his inauguration, the former badminton champion sought blessings from his family.

"I gathered with my family to ask for their blessings. This is just a trust and a responsibility, to carry out my duties. This is also a source of pride for my family to be trusted in President Prabowo's cabinet," he said.