Indonesia U-16 Badminton Team Signals Strong Regeneration in Tokyo

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir expressed high appreciation to the U-16 Badminton team after their hard-fought efforts brought Indonesia to a runner-up finish at the Tokyo International Youth Sports Games 2026.

Kartini praised the achievement as a crucial milestone in strengthening the regeneration of the nation's future badminton talent, noting that reaching the final demonstrated the rising quality and competitiveness of Indonesia's young athletes on the global stage.

The Indonesian team delivered an impressive performance throughout the tournament held at Komazawa Olympic Park in Tokyo, Japan.

Ambassador Kartini personally congratulated the coaches and young players for their dedication while reaffirming full diplomatic support for national athletic development programs competing in international events across Japan.

"Congratulations to our young Indonesian Badminton Team. Their effort in flying the Merah Putih (Red and White flag) deserves high appreciation. Indonesian badminton will continuously regenerate young athletes who improve their skills through global events like this," Ambassador Kartini said in a statement to RRI on Monday, August 31, 2026.

Ambassador Kartini reaffirmed the commitment of Indonesian diplomatic missions in Japan to actively support the country's sports ambassadors. The Red and White squad concluded their campaign following a hard-fought 2–3 defeat to Fukushima in the final on Sunday, August 30, 2026.

"The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo will always support Indonesian ambassadors in world-class championships held in Japan," Ambassador Kartini added.

Indonesia's path to the final began with dominant 5–0 victories over Thailand and home representatives Tokyo A during the group stage. They maintained their perfect run by defeating Saitama to secure a place in the championship match. (Diva Rifdah)