In a speech ahead of the send-off of the 33rd SEA Games contingent for Thailand on Friday, Prabowo asked Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi and Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir about the possibility of increasing incentives for high-achieving athletes.
"Minister Thohir, should we give incentives of Rp500 million (US$29 thousand) to those who win gold medals? Can we increase it to Rp1 billion? Is it possible, Minister Hadi? Thank God," Prabowo said.
According to the head of state, the incentive is not merely a motivation for athletes, but also a form of state appreciation for Indonesian athletes competing at SEA Games.
Prabowo noted that the government consistently honors and values the contributions of sports heroes, ensuring that the state remains committed to giving proper support to dedicated athletes.
"I am sure you are not competing solely for the money. Winning such a competition will greatly benefit your career," he added.
The President advised the athletes to compete wholeheartedly and reminded the importance of a fighting spirit and inner strength.
Meanwhile, Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir emphasized that the Indonesian athletes competing in the 2025 SEA Games are determined to represent the nation and give their best.
Thohir conveyed that the Indonesian contingent is fully prepared to participate in the largest sporting event in Southeast Asia, which will take place from December 9-20, 2025.
The event will feature 11 countries competing in 51 sports. The Indonesian contingent will compete in 48 sports and have undergone a training camp for approximately two and a half months.
The Indonesian contingent totals 1,021 athletes, making it the fourth-largest in Southeast Asia after Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
The minister targets Indonesia to maintain its third-place position, as it did at the previous SEA Games in Cambodia, with 87 gold, 80 silver, and 109 bronze medals.
Related news: Prabowo recalls youthful dream at SEA Games send-off
Related news: Indonesia must reflect its strength at 2025 SEA Games: Minister
Related news: RI President outlines three directives to improve athlete welfare
Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
