Buleleng Makes History as Host of 8th Vovinam World Championship, Boosting Northern Bali Sport Tourism
Singaraja, Bali — The northern regency of Buleleng is set to mark a historic milestone in its sporting and tourism development by hosting the 8th World Vovinam Championship from November 1 to 8, 2025. This prestigious international martial arts event is expected to bring together nearly 400 athletes representing 26 countries, positioning Buleleng prominently on the global sport tourism map.
A Symbolic Mascot Reflecting Local Heritage
The championship adopts the mascot “Goak Terbang Menembus Dunia Global,” inspired by the rich history of the Panji Sakti Kingdom. The mascot symbolizes the intelligence, sharp vision, courage, and enduring fighting spirit of the Buleleng people. Organizers believe it embodies the spirit that will carry both the competition and the region to international acclaim.
Official Statements Highlight Pride and Opportunity
Gede Supriatna, chairman of the event committee and current Deputy Regent of Buleleng, expressed immense pride over the international trust placed in Buleleng as host. He emphasized that beyond fostering martial arts development in Indonesia, the championship serves as a platform to strengthen camaraderie among athletes, federations, and participating nations.
“This is a prime opportunity to promote Buleleng’s tourism potential to the global community through sports,” Supriatna said during the opening ceremony held at Gde Manik Arts Building in Singaraja on November 2. Echoing this sentiment, I Nyoman Yamadhiputra, chairman of the Indonesian Vovinam Federation and secretary-general of Bali’s National Sports Committee (KONI), underscored the event’s historical significance for Indonesian sports. He noted that previous editions were hosted by major cities worldwide, including Paris, Algiers, Berlin, Phnom Penh, and Brussels. Hosting the event in Singaraja places Buleleng alongside these prominent locations, marking an extraordinary achievement.
Comprehensive Preparations and Security Measures Underway
In readiness for welcoming international guests, thorough preparations are underway, including accommodation arrangements and venue readiness. The Buleleng Police Department (Polres Buleleng) supports the event fully by implementing robust security protocols. According to Kompol I Made Agus Dwi Wirawan, Head of Operations, specialized units such as Jibom, Gegana, K9 from Bali Police, and Brimob are deployed. Integration of CCTV monitoring with command centers at Polres, the regional Information and Communications Office, and Bali Police ensures vertically coordinated security coverage.
“Every route, venue, and critical point will be secured with stringent safety measures to guarantee a smooth event,” Kompol Wirawan affirmed.
Ensuring Athlete Comfort and Successful Execution
On the eve of the opening ceremony, Deputy Regent Gede Supriatna, accompanied by Made Pada Gunawan from the Financial and Regional Revenue Management Agency and Ketut Wiratmaja, Chairman of KONI Buleleng, conducted inspections at several hotels housing athletes and officials. This hands-on approach aims to verify accommodation quality, facilities readiness, and overall logistical support for the event.
Supriatna engaged personally with participants from various countries, seeking feedback to ensure their comfort during their stay in Buleleng. He expressed appreciation for the collective efforts that have made the event possible and expressed hope for a successful championship that also doubles as a platform to highlight Buleleng’s tourism allure to a worldwide audience.
Looking Ahead
The 8th Vovinam World Championship represents more than a sporting competition—it is a pivotal step in Buleleng’s vision to invigorate sports tourism and gain international recognition. As this northern Bali regency welcomes the world, it simultaneously showcases its cultural heritage, hospitality, and capabilities to host large-scale international events, setting a promising course for its future on the global stage.
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