SOUTH BANGKA -- Support for the development of community sports and the empowerment of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) continues across South Bangka. One such initiative is PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk’s support for the 2026 Kajari Cup-Trans Rias Volleyball Tournament.
The inter-village volleyball tournament, which brought together teams from across South Bangka, was a collaboration between the South Bangka District Prosecutor’s Office and a youth group in Rias Village. PT TIMAH also supported the event as part of efforts to encourage community participation in sports.
The tournament was held at the volleyball court in SP.A Hamlet, Rias Village, Toboali District. The competition began on June 22, 2026, and concluded with the final matches on September 2, 2026, drawing strong enthusiasm from the community.
A total of 88 men’s and women’s teams participated in the tournament, which was organized by the youth of Rias Village. The matches attracted considerable public interest, particularly from the quarterfinals through the finals, when the venue was packed with spectators.
Imam Syaifudin, Technical Coordinator of the 2026 Kajari Cup-Trans Rias Volleyball Tournament, said the event was made possible with support from various parties, including PT TIMAH, which helped ensure the tournament ran smoothly.
“PT TIMAH’s support was very helpful in ensuring the matches could run smoothly. Amid the current challenging economic conditions, the company’s support has been a meaningful contribution, both for sporting activities and for the community,” Imam said.
According to him, the tournament was not only a competitive event for volleyball enthusiasts but also provided an opportunity to strengthen ties between the community and the South Bangka District Prosecutor’s Office.
In addition, the event provided opportunities for local MSMEs to benefit economically from the large crowds attending the tournament.
“We also wanted to support MSMEs. During the finals, around 40 MSMEs participated, and we also provided opportunities for businesses from outside the village to take part and help stimulate the local economy,” he said.
The presence of dozens of MSMEs meant the tournament served not only as a hub for sporting activities but also as a catalyst for local economic activity. The large number of spectators provided MSME operators with opportunities to market and sell their products.
Imam added that the tournament was also expected to motivate young people in South Bangka who are interested in volleyball to continue developing their skills. Inter-village competitions such as this could potentially serve as an early platform for identifying promising local volleyball talent.
“We hope young people who enjoy playing volleyball will become even more motivated and encouraged to pursue the sport. It should not be just a hobby, but something they can develop into an achievement,” he said.
In the tournament, Tran Muda 1 emerged as the champion in the men’s category, while Putri Alia Bikang won the women’s category.
PT TIMAH’s support for the tournament is part of the company’s efforts to support positive community activities, particularly the development of sports and local economic activity. (*)
