Bandung, June 6, 2024 – Prof. Dr. M. Solehuddin, M.Pd., M.A., Rector of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI), received the Guinness World Record certificate for the 60-hour nonstop futsal game. The certificate was presented by Jorge Marquez, Chairman of the Free and Safe Indonesia Foundation, in a ceremony held at the National Education Museum (Museum Diknas) at UPI, Jl. Dr. Setiabudhi No. 229, Bandung.
The world record-breaking event took place from May 26 to 29, 2024. In addition to the marathon futsal game, the event also featured various activities, including the International Edu Human Trafficking Seminar with the theme “Empowering Communities to Combat Human Trafficking in Indonesia.”
According to Jorge Marquez, the event was not merely about sports but also aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking, which remains rampant in many regions, particularly in Indonesia.
“This event is not just an ordinary sports activity; it aims to highlight the severe dangers of human trafficking. Many women and children in Indonesia fall victim to trafficking crimes, from child prostitution to child labor exploitation. Through this event, we hope to raise awareness about the severe and dangerous nature of human trafficking and the need to combat it,” Marquez passionately stated.
The 60-hour nonstop futsal game involved participants from various backgrounds, including students, human trafficking activists, university staff, futsal community members, and the general public. Participants took turns playing the physically demanding yet spirited game. The event served not only as an attempt to break a world record but also as a platform to voice humanitarian issues.
UPI Rector, Prof. Dr. M. Solehuddin, M.Pd., M.A., said, “Initiatives like this are crucial in raising awareness about serious humanitarian issues. Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia is proud to host this event and contribute to the fight against human trafficking.”
The dedication and enthusiasm of all parties involved in this event provide hope that through collaboration and tangible actions, combating human trafficking is possible. Increased awareness is expected to foster a more caring and responsible society, starting within the university community, especially at UPI.
The Guinness World Record certificate presentation was attended by the Secretary of the UPI Board of Trustees, the UPI Vice Rector for IKSI, the University Secretary, the Director of the DIA Directorate at UPI, deans of various faculties, university leaders, invited guests from various sectors, and students who participated in the record-breaking event, showcasing a concrete commitment to combating human trafficking.