Indonesia understood and overlooked some issues during the event because this edition's SEA Games marked the first time that Cambodia served as the host country, he added.
"On the other side, we also understood that this was Cambodia's first (SEA Games) as the host, and with all limitations and setbacks, or when we conveyed our inputs or protests, they responded very well," Hakim said after joining a welcoming event for the SEA Games athletes at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Banten, on Thursday evening.
Indonesia also appreciates Cambodia for its effort to host the SEA Games as well as possible until the closing ceremony on Wednesday (May 17, 2023), he added.
"All in all, they have been successful despite any deficiencies that occurred (during the competition)," he continued.
The Chef de Mission said that Indonesia's success in smashing its 2021 SEA Games medal tally at this year’s competition was the result of the teamwork between athletes and all stakeholders.
Indonesia placed third at the 2023 SEA Games with 87 gold, 80 silver, and 109 bronze medals. At the 2021 SEA Games, the national contingent had managed to win 69 gold, 91 silver, and 81 bronze medals, though it had also placed third back then.
"This is the result of the teamwork and seriousness of the athletes from all sports and all stakeholders as today, we are united for Indonesia. Our goal is only one: To sing (the national anthem) Indonesia Raya, and this is where we are successful," Hakim remarked.
He also highlighted Indonesia's success in team sports as so far, the nation has only been known to be strong in individual sports.
At the 2023 SEA Games, Indonesia won gold medals in men's football, men's volley, men's beach volley, men's indoor hockey, and women's cricket.
"Perhaps for all this time, Indonesia is identical with achievements in individual sports, but as we see the SEA Games achievements, there is hope that our group sports are gradually improving," Hakim added.
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Translator: A Rauf Andar A, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Sri Haryati
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