Deputy Governor of Banten, Achmad Dimyati Natakusumah, officially opens the Dewa United Jawara Cup 1 football competition.

progresifjaya.co.id, LEBAK – Banten Deputy Governor Achmad Dimyati Natakusumah officially opened the Dewa United Jawara Cup 1 football competition at Maja Village Stadium, Lebak Regency, on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Organized by the Persatuan Suporter Anak Dewa (PSAD) supporters’ association to commemorate Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day, the tournament features 32 teams competing in a knockout format over the course of one month.

Achmad Dimyati Natakusumah urged all participants to prioritize sportsmanship throughout the matches.

“Play well, because Dewa United is looking for promising, talented players. Regularly held football competitions are key to producing high-achieving players,” said Dimyati.

He added, that a greater number of competitions creates more opportunities for young players to hone their skills and gain match experience. He also emphasized the importance of football training and education from an early age.

Early-stage development helps players master fundamental techniques correctly before advancing to higher levels of competition.

“If we observe closely, great players are the product of proper training. They are coached from childhood so that, by the time they reach adulthood, they understand how to play the game at a high level,” Dimyati said.

He also noted, that a consistent development process opens up opportunities for players to evolve into professional athletes.

“Once they turn professional, they must keep training. They shouldn’t stop learning or improving their skills,” he stated.

He also reminded everyone that football matches require not only player skill but also the support of spectators and fans. However, high public enthusiasm for football is sometimes accompanied by excessive fanaticism.

“Spectators and fans can often be intense. Therefore, safety and comfort must be maintained with the assistance of the Polri and the TNI,” Dimyati said.

He expressed hope that all parties involved in the Jawara Cup 1 would help maintain a safe, comfortable, and conducive atmosphere during the matches.  In this way, the competition can serve as a developmental platform that benefits the growth of football in Lebak Regency and Banten Province.

Dimyati also noted, that Dewa United is a source of pride for the people of Banten, especially given that the club competes in the top tier of national football and continues to grow within the country’s football landscape.

He also highly appreciated Dewa United’s support for the Jawara Cup 1, an event that involves community-based teams.

Meanwhile, PSAD Chairman, M. Gun Ajudan stated, that the tournament aims to bring Dewa United closer to the people of Banten, particularly those in remote villages.

The event also serves as a means to introduce the club to a wider audience while building closer relationships with football fans.

“Hopefully, Dewa United will become increasingly well-known among the people of Banten, reaching even the villages,” said M. Gun Ajudan.

He hopes, that Dewa United—representing the “Land of the Jawara” —will continue to achieve success and bring honor to Banten Province on the national football stage.

The Jawara Cup 1 competition itself is expected to provide a platform for young local players to showcase their best abilities and open up opportunities to advance to higher levels of football.

The Jawara Cup I tournament offers a top prize of Rp30 million for the winner and Rp20 million for the runner-up. (Bembo)