"After monitoring the training, we believe Indonesia can once again become the overall champion at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand," Djokosoetono said at the Indonesian Pencak Silat Training Center in Jakarta on Tuesday.
At the center, he directly observed the athletes' centralized training organized by the Executive Board of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association (PB IPSI).
The visit was the first in a series to monitor Indonesia's preparations for the SEA Games, which will take place in December.
Pencak silat was chosen as the first sport to be monitored due to its significance as a traditional martial art that embodies Indonesia's cultural identity.
During the visit, Djokosoetono discussed various issues with PB IPSI officials, coaches, and athletes.
He expressed optimism about Indonesia’s performance, citing the athletes’ strong preparation and intensive training.
The team also includes several gold medalists from the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia.
He said the athletes remain highly motivated and determined to win medals at the multi-sport event.
At the 2023 SEA Games, Indonesia won 276 medals — 87 gold, 80 silver, and 109 bronze — finishing third overall.
In that edition, Indonesia's pencak silat team emerged as overall champion with nine golds, six silvers, and one bronze.
Related news: Pencak silat to debut at Asian Youth Games with 14 nations competing
Related news: Turn pencak silat into tourist, cultural attraction, W Sumatra told
Translator: Aloysius Lewokeda, Raka Adji
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
