REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, PALEMBANG -- South Sumatra, as a province that becomes one of the host of Asian Games XVIII in 2018, is committed to be sponsor free of tobacco products and institutions affiliated with cigarettes.

"Implementation of the Asian Games to be held without interference from tobacco sponsorship. It is a commitment which confirms that Indonesia is a country that protects its people to be healthy," said South Sumatra Governor Alex Noerdin while receiving the National Commission on Tobacco Control in the office through a press release received from Palembang, on Tuesday, May 26.

Palembang, South Sumatra provincial capital, as one of the designated cities to host the quadrennial tournament organizers are ready to welcome "Tobacco Free Asian Games 2018".

Alex said that smoking and exercising are two opposites.

According to him, the image of a sport that is used for promoting cigarettes is actually just a tool for the industry to cover the dangers of tobacco consumption.

"In the end, cigarettes imaged as a product that is not dangerous and could affect children to consume," said Alex.

Alex said Palembang as one of the hosts was instrumental in confirming the position and image of Indonesia in the international world. Therefore, free from tobacco sponsorship commitments must be implemented.

Earlier, Alex declared his province as the most ready to host the Asian Games, it was see from game facilities that available.

"Clearly, South Sumatra, no doubt when organizing international sporting event as already experienced," he said.

Sumsel has successfully hosted the SEA Games, Islamic Solidarity Games, POM ASEAN and other world championships.

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