Papua (ANTARA) - The central government allocated Rp1.5 trillion for the construction of seven venues for the XX Papua National Games (PON), according to an official from the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR).
"The government invested Rp1.5 trillion from the state budget for the construction of the seven venues—Rp1 trillion for physical venues, Rp200 billion for regional planning, and Rp300 billion for housing," director of strategic infrastructure at the PUPR Ministry Iwan Suprijanto informed on Saturday.
The construction of the seven venues at a cost of Rp1.5 trillion was more efficient than the Papua provincial government's proposal of Rp1.7 trillion for four venues.
"We adjusted the budget with cost efficiency, so we could still meet the standards," Suprijanto informed.
The seven venues include Istora Papua Bangkit in Jayapura district, an aquatic and archery venue in Jayapura district, a cricket and hockey venue in Jayapura district, a roller skating venue in Jayapura city, and a rowing venue in Youtefa Bay, Jayapura city, he said.
Venue construction refers to building as per the standard of each sport organization, proven by international certification, and to the technical requirements of building construction, he explained.
For example, Istora Papua Bangkit involved high-tech installation of textile ducting for air control to ensure wind-sensitive matches will not be disturbed, he said.
The venues, particularly the rowing and aquatic venues, were built to showcase the exotic natural beauty of Papua, he added.
"Since it was built in Papua, we hope to expose Papua's natural beauty through the venue. Spectators at the rowing venue can enjoy watching the competition in Youtefa Bay," he said.
Meanwhile at the aquatic venue, spectators can enjoy beautiful views of the Cycloop Mountains.
"We have also considered maintenance by implementing environmentally friendly buildings so that the burden of building management does not burden regional finances," he added.