Bintang Akbar Named Indonesia’s Flagbearer for Sanya 2026 Asian Beach Games

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Asian Beach Games 2026 officially open today in Sanya, Hainan Province, China, running from 22–30 April 2026. The event spotlights disciplines across sand and water, with Indonesia fielding athletes in beach volleyball, 3x3 basketball, and sport climbing.

At the heart of the opening ceremony, beach volleyball star Bintang Akbar has been entrusted to carry the Indonesian flag. Chef de Mission Krisna Bayu explained the choice was based on both his achievements and personal qualities.

“Bintang Akbar is a symbol of resilience and national pride. We believe he can represent Indonesia with honor on the international stage,” Krisna said, as quoted by Antara,

The 24-year-old athlete from Mojokerto has already built an impressive record: two SEA Games gold medals, victory at the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Futures 2024, a championship at Vietnam’s Sanvinest Khanh Hoa Cup 2025, runner-up at the Beach Pro Tour Futures Qingdao 2025 in China, and third place at the AVC Beach Tour Raja Ampat Open 2026.

Bintang welcomed the honor with gratitude. “I am very proud and honored to be Indonesia’s flagbearer at the Asian Beach Games. This is a moment I will never forget,” he said.

Looking ahead, he vowed to continue Indonesia’s winning tradition in beach volleyball. “My target here is to maintain the gold tradition. I ask for the prayers and support of all Indonesians so we can deliver our best,” he said.

Indonesia is fielding 22 athletes across three sports in Sanya: beach volleyball, 3x3 basketball, and sport climbing. The volleyball team of eight athletes begins competition on April 23, followed by basketball on April 25 and climbing on April 28. ***