Komet/Banyu Deliver Gold for Indonesia at ASEAN Para Games 2025

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian para table tennis duo Komet Akbar and Banyu Tri Mulyo capped off a stellar campaign by silencing the home crowd in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, as they defeated local pair C. Punpoo and B. Sillapakong in the men’s doubles final of the ASEAN Para Games 2025. The match took place at Central Plaza’s fourth floor arena, where the Indonesian team showcased dominance from start to finish.

Komet and Banyu secured the gold medal in the Men’s Double Class MD18 after sweeping their opponents in straight games, 11-4, 11-5, and 11-9.

“It was a very tough match because we were facing the hosts, and they are young players with Paralympic experience. They’re among our strongest rivals in Southeast Asia,” Komet said after the victory on Sunday evening, January 25, 2026, as quoted on the Indonesian Ministry of Youth and Sports official website.

Banyu, who also claimed bronze in the Men’s Singles TT8, echoed the sentiment. “They were definitely more determined as the home team, eager to beat Indonesia. Since we often dominate para table tennis, it’s natural they wanted to challenge us.”

The triumph added another gold to Indonesia’s medal tally, fulfilling the team’s target for the event. Komet emphasized that the preparation had been rigorous, with the national training camp running nearly a year to ensure peak performance against Thailand as hosts.

“We were indeed targeted to win gold, so our preparation was extraordinary. NPC’s training camp has been ongoing for almost a year, with daily intensive sessions. Facing Thailand at home required us to be fully ready,” explained Komet, who has now collected two golds and one silver at the Games.

Following their success in Thailand, the pair will immediately resume training for the Asian Para Games 2026, with hopes of qualifying for the pinnacle of para sports, the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.

“Our nearest target is the upcoming tournament in Japan. Hopefully we can achieve the best results there and secure qualification for the 2028 Paralympics,” said Komet, a native of Pomalaa, Southeast Sulawesi.

He concluded with a heartfelt dedication. “We dedicate this gold medal to our parents, families, and loved ones. Their support has been incredible, even though I rarely come home. NPC Indonesia feels like a second home for athletes. This medal is our gift to the nation.” ***