Indonesia Sends Sea Games Contingents

President Prabowo sends Indonesia’s Contingents for the 33rd SEA Games 2025 in Thailand on Friday (12/05). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Cahyo)

President Prabowo Subianto affirmed that the mission entrusted to Indonesia’s athletes competing in the 2025 SEA Games is an honorable duty to uphold the nation’s name on the international stage.

The President delivered the message during his address at the Send-Off Ceremony for Indonesia’s contingent to the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, held at the State Palace in Jakarta on Friday (12/5).

“You have been given a noble task—defending your country, defending your nation. And if you succeed, your names will not disappear from public discourse, from memory, or from the narrative of the Indonesian people,” the President said.

“As mentors, we pray that you will become worthy representatives. Make Indonesia Raya resound before other nations,” he continued.

The President urged the athletes to compete with total commitment, focus, discipline, and inner strength. He emphasized that mental fortitude and self-belief often determine the highest levels of achievement.

“Sometimes, inner strength can surpass what humans think is possible. You must draw power from within. Convince yourself first, and only then will you reach achievements beyond what others may expect,” he said.

In front of the athletes, President Prabowo also announced a planned increase in bonuses for SEA Games gold medalists—from Rp500 million to Rp1 billion. However, he acknowledged the athletes’ core motivation despite the material rewards.

“This is not about valuing everything in material terms—not at all. But you must believe that ours is a great nation, a nation that knows how to honor the service of its heroes,” he stated.

The President further underlined that sports serve as a symbol of life and a reflection of a nation’s spirit and character. For that reason, the government is targeting the construction of large-scale training centers as part of long-term athlete development.

“We will build state-of-the-art facilities. We will send our young athletes abroad to learn, bring in the best coaches, and train talents from an early age—from as young as eight. We will establish long-term national training programs,” he said.

Closing his remarks, President Prabowo expressed confidence that Indonesia, as a great nation, will produce many champions in the years ahead. “Thank you for your spirit. The nation is waiting for your achievements. Thank you, and good luck. May the Almighty protect you all in your journey,” he concluded. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RD/LW)