The year of 2018 is a busy time for sporting events, with not only the World Cup in Russia but also the upcoming Asian Games, which will be hosted by Indonesia in Jakarta, the country’s capital, and Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra. Driving through the roads of Jakarta, one can see the city preparing for the 18th Asian Games with banners installed around the city, old sports facilities being renovated and new infrastructure being built to support the games.

The benefit of being the host is that Indonesia has the opportunity to strengthen the country’s national pride. Indonesia is made up of more than 17,000 islands, characterized by differences in language Indonesia, the host country of the 2018 Asian Games, will see various sporting events taking place in Jakarta and Palembang. The two big cities which are respectively located in the special capital district and South Sumatra will have the honor to organize this multinational event.

But we wonder whether hosting such events would be beneficial for the country’s social and economic progress. On this, let’s discuss the various the positive aspects of having international sporting like the Asian Games for the country.

National branding

If Indonesia were to successfully host the Asian Games, it will arguably boost the country’s brand. There will be great publications across many countries in Asia. These international publications can serve as a soft promotion tool that will enhance the reputation and positive image of Indonesia to the world.

Regarding national branding, the government is aimed at promoting some of the unique animals of the country through the mascots. Throughout the sporting event, Indonesia wants the rest of the world to see how diverse, beautiful and unique Indonesia really is.

Tourism boost

If the 2018 Asian Games runs smoothly and successfully, it will no doubt boost tourism in Indonesia, which in the long run will positively impact the economy of the country. There will be visitors, be it athletes, guests of honors and spectators, from the participating countries coming to Indonesia and enjoying the games. It is also likely that there will be visitors from non-participating countries who are interested in watching the games.

Indonesia has been promoting its unrivalled natural beauty. This effort is expected to generate fruitful results when the Asian Games takes place. Visitors will, hopefully, visit other regions across the archipelago to marvel at their beauties and admire the unique culture of the locals.

More business opportunities

Still from the economical standpoint, Indonesia, particularly the regions holding the events (South Sumatra and Jakarta), will hopefully benefit from increased business opportunities. The government is planning to organize business seminars and special events that showcase the creations of the locals during the Asian Games. It is hoped that by attending the seminars and exhibitions, the locals can show their creativity, which will attract investors to invest or entrepreneurs to form business collaboration with the locals. for this multinational event, it is best not to not only ponder about the immediate short-term effect. In other words, we have to also consider the potential long term effects, including the potential benefits and downsides that this event could bring in the future.

Source:
http://www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2018/06/28/2018-asian-games-time-for-indonesia-to-shine.html
http://setkab.go.id/en/asian-games-2018-is-expected-to-give-a-major-impact-on-tourism/