The highly anticipated ASEAN University Games (AUG) 2024 was officially inaugurated on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, with Indonesia proudly hosting the event. The opening ceremony took place at Universitas Negeri Surabaya (Unesa). Eleven countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Timor Leste, Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, and the Philippines, have sent their top contingents to compete.
Duration and Venues
AUG 2024 is set to run from June 25 to July 6, 2024. Several universities in Surabaya and Malang have been chosen as venues for various sporting events. Among them is Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), where the Airlangga Convention Center (ACC) and the Sports Hall (GOR) at UNAIR’s MERR-C Campus will host judo and 3×3 basketball competitions.
Showcasing Southeast Asia’s Strength
Prof. Ts Dr. Mohd Rusllim Mohamed, President of the AUG Sports Council, highlighted the scale of participation, with over 2,500 athletes and officials from across Southeast Asia and approximately 4,500 volunteers. “This event is extraordinary as it unites people from all over Southeast Asia,” he said.
AUG serves as a testament to the strength and unity of Southeast Asia. The event embodies values such as sportsmanship, solidarity, mutual respect, and cooperation. Prof. Rusllim emphasized that AUG provides an excellent platform for students to showcase their talents and build friendships.
“AUG offers a unique opportunity for students to display their skills while forging new friendships,” he explained.
Prof. Rusllim underscored that the student athletes are not only representing their universities and countries but are also symbols of global peace and unity. He urged the participants to seize this opportunity to learn and grow together.
“Make the most of this opportunity to learn from each other, grow, and create lasting memories,” he advised.
A Symbol of Friendship
The AUG 2024 was officially opened by Ario Bimo Nandito Ariotedjo, the Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Indonesia. He emphasized that AUG 2024 is not just a significant sporting event but also a symbol of friendship. “AUG represents more than just a sports competition; it symbolizes the bonds of friendship between nations amidst global challenges,” he remarked.
Dito highlighted that the participating students embody the energetic and optimistic spirit of youth. He expressed confidence that AUG 2024 would enable students to connect, form friendships, and foster mutual respect.
“I am confident that you will not only win medals but also use this opportunity to expand your networks, build friendships, and show mutual respect,” he said.
In his opening remarks at AUG 2024, Ario Bimo Nandito Ariotedjo called on all participants to uphold sportsmanship and camaraderie throughout the event. He expressed optimism that the games would proceed smoothly and provide meaningful experiences for everyone involved. “Let us demonstrate to the world that Southeast Asia is strong and united. I hope the event runs smoothly and successfully, offering valuable experiences for all of us,” he concluded.