Prabowo pledges bigger cash bonus for Asian Games gold medalists

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has pledged larger financial rewards for athletes who secure gold medals at the upcoming 2026 Asian Games in Japan, as reported by the Presidential Secretariat. This announcement comes amid Indonesia's goal to claim four gold medals, a decrease from the seven achieved in the 2023 Asian Games held in Thailand.

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir revealed that the current gold medal bonus in the Southeast Asian Games stands at Rp 1 billion (US$56,447), prompting the President to assert that Asian Games gold medalists should receive Rp 3 billion in honor of their contribution to the nation's prestige. Prabowo emphasized the significance of this increase, noting that it represents nearly double the amount awarded to individual gold medalists during the previous Games in Hangzhou, China, under President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo's administration.

The President also outlined plans to provide additional support to athletes, coaches, and sports administrators, recognizing their roles in fostering Indonesia's sporting prowess. As the Indonesian contingent prepares to represent the country in Japan, Prabowo urged the athletes to demonstrate resilience and determination, stating that he expects them to embody the tough, spirited spirit of the Indonesian people.