Hendrik Yaputra, Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto has announced a significant increase in the bonus for Indonesian athletes who secure gold medals at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand. The gold medalist bonus will be raised from Rp500 million to Rp1 billion.

"The budget incentive is Rp500 million. [Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir] could raise it to Rp1 billion. That's possible," the President stated during the Send-Off ceremony for the SEA Games 2025 athletes at Istana Merdeka, Central Jakarta, on Friday, December 5, 2025.

The Head of State stressed that while athletes do not compete solely for money, the financial support will aid the athletes' future careers. "It's not evaluated solely from material aspects. But you have to believe that our nation is great, understands, and respects the services of the heroes," he affirmed.

In addition to immediate financial incentives, the President, who also serves as the General Chair of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association, announced plans to build a 500-hectare sports center. This facility is intended for long-term athletic development, with the government planning to start educating and training children from the age of eight.

"We will send our children. We will bring the best coaches. We will train them from the age of eight. With this development, it will produce young heroes who will elevate Indonesia's name," he said.

The largest sports event in Southeast Asia, held once every two years, brings together athletes from 11 ASEAN countries.

President Prabowo Subianto officially sent off the SEA Games 2025 athletes today. The Indonesian contingent departing for the SEA Games 2025 consists of 1,021 athletes. They are scheduled to compete in 48 of the 51 sports featured at the Southeast Asian sporting event.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2071291/prabowo-doubles-bonus-for-sea-games-gold-medalists-to-rp1-billio