The countdown event for the Asian Games 2018 will be held at National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta and Kuto Besak Fort in Palembang, South Sumatra, on Friday, August 18, 2017.

According to Chief of the Committee of Asian Games 2018 (INASGOC) Erick Thohir at Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday, although it is unofficial, the countdown event is an important part of the Asian sports event.

"The countdown is an important aspect of the Asian Games, as it will be a campaign event for the people. This is especially significant since after the SEA Games 2017, Indonesia will host the Asian Games, and it will be held soon," Thohir stated during a press conference at the INASGOC office.

Today, as part of the efforts, we will increase awareness among the people that Indonesia will host the Asian Games in 2018, he noted.

"This is our homework to work even harder," Thohir remarked.

The countdown event will be held in two cities and be attended by Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) along with various delegations of Asian nations in Monas, Jakarta. The event will be open to the public and be free of charge.

Various artists, especially from Asia and Indonesia, will enliven the event themed "Energy of Asia" through a performance of colossal dance, Ruwat Bumi by Eko Supriyanto, which will showcase Indonesias confidence to host the Asian Games 2018 and also demonstrate the nations identity to the world.

The countdown for the Asian Games 2018 will be based on digital clocks at Hotel Indonesias Roundabout and the Gelora Sriwijaya Stadium, Jakabaring, Palembang, which will begin once President Jokowi shoots an arrow at an LED light target.

Source: ANTARA