Antara News·Indonesia·Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 07:51 AM

Indonesia to showcase Batak culture at Asian Games opening

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Roy, Kenzu

Nagoya, Japan (ANTARA) - Indonesian contingent is set to wear traditional outfits featuring Batak ethnic motifs, which will be showcased during the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games opening ceremony on Saturday.

Indonesian designer Ghea Panggabean, who was selected to design the Red and White contingent's outfits for the opening ceremony, explained the concept behind her designs when met in Nagoya, Japan, on Saturday.

"It has a heritage background, because we should be proud of the strength of Indonesian culture. So, I chose Gorga from the Batak people and also Limar," Panggabean said.

Gorga is a unique decorative ornament of the Batak people, commonly applied in carving or painting on traditional Batak houses. The motif typically features a combination of black and red colors.

Panggabean explained the choice of Gorga was not based on personal preference or because she herself is of Batak descent, but because the motif carries a philosophical value that resonates with the athletes' struggle.

"Gorga, from Batak house carvings, symbolises strength, protection from danger, and good fortune. Hopefully, by wearing this motif, there is a symbolic hope that we can achieve many victories," Panggabean explained.

She stressed the choice of Gorga was not hers alone, noting the involvement of Didit Hediprasetyo, the son of President Prabowo Subianto. Hediprasetyo is known to have taken part in designing the defile parade outfits and jerseys for the largest multi-sport event in Asia.

Panggabean and her team spent three months designing, refining, and finalising the concept and theme used by the Indonesian contingent at the Asian Games.

"Yes, it took three months to complete the process, from making the outfits to the accessories. Besides the athletes' jerseys, for the parade I also designed items such as Gorga shirts, Gorga kebaya, and Gorga ties to be worn by the Chef de Mission (CdM) and others," Panggabean noted.

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