Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. and the 26th Indonesia SEA Games Organizing Committee/INASOC signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on Monday, 14 March 2011 as a sign of endorsment towards Indonesia as host of the 26th SEA Games 2011. The agreement appoints Garuda Indonesia as the SEA Games XXVI official airline.

The cooperation covers several aspects, among others transportation support, joint campaign to increase public awareness of the SEA Games XXVI, as well as “branding” building and other communications programs.

Commenting on the event, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Andi Malarangeng applauded Garuda Indonesia’s initiative and also expressed his hope that other state-owned companies will do likewise to ensure this year’s Games will be a success.

Meanwhile, Garuda Indonesia President & CEO, Emirsyah Satar said that as “Flag Carrier”, Garuda Indonesia bears the responsibility of contributing to the success of the Government’s programs. Apart from consistently taking part in the development of the nation’s economy through business developments, trade and tourism promotions, Garuda Indonesia has always shown an eagerness to participate in the development of sport in Indonesia. “This afternoon’s MoC signing with INASOC is one way of showing that Garuda Indonesia takes its role seriously in promoting sports in the country,” added Emir.

INASOC Chairman, Rita Subowo also expressed her appreciation of Garuda Indonesia’s support towards INASOC and hope that the airline will be part of the 26th SEA Games’ success this year.

In terms of furthering sports in the country, to date, Garuda Indonesia has shown its support by providing transportation for various sporting missions to foreign countries, encouraging sporting events, as well as managing and continuously developing a specific branch of sports, such as tennis, by organizing the Garuda Indonesia Master Series.

Garuda Indonesia Master Series is an annual event organized by Garuda Indonesia to promote tennis in the country. Today, the Garuda Indonesia Master Series is considered as one of the most effective event to discover new talents in tennis.

As “foster father” Garuda Indonesia gives its full support in the 26th SEA GAMES tennis events.
The 26th Games of Southeast Asian countries will be held in Jakarta and Palembang, Indonesia, starting 11 November till 25 November 2011. The SEA Games is held every two years and is participated by 11 Southeast Asian countries: Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, East Timor, and Vietnam.