For the first time in history, Lion Dance was officially included as a competitive sport at the 21st National Sports Week (PON XXI) Aceh-North Sumatra 2024.
This marks a historic milestone, as Lion Dance, traditionally known as a part of Chinese heritage, is now recognized as a competitive sport on a national stage. The event was held at Martial Arts Arena, Deli Serdang, North Sumatra, from September 4-8, 2024, further reinforcing PON’s commitment to embracing Indonesia’s cultural diversity.
Under the Indonesian Lion Dance Federation (FOBI), the sport is expected to serve as a bridge for unity and cultural tolerance. This competition also provided athletes an opportunity to showcase their skills, not only at the national level but also as a stepping stone toward international events such as the Asian Games and even the Olympics.
Each category combined artistry and athleticism, demanding agility, speed, and balance while maneuvering in a heavy costume.
One of the standout performances came from the Aceh Lion Dance team, which won five medals, including two golds. Aceh’s head coach, Harianto (Acong), expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, emphasizing the importance of dedication and hard work.
“They have the mentality of champions. This success is the result of the athletes’ hard work, support from the Aceh Lion Dance Provincial Board, and prayers from the people of Aceh,” said Acong.
With this achievement, Lion Dance is no longer just a cultural tradition—it is now a sport with the potential to bring Indonesia pride on the international stage. The inclusion of Lion Dance in PON XXI has paved the way for its further growth and competitiveness in the world of sports.
