Dragon Boat Squad Overcomes Financial Setback to Target World Glory

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Following a painful financial setback that forced them to miss the 2026 ASEAN Beach Games in April, Indonesia’s national dragon boat team is set to return to the international stage after securing crucial backing from state-owned enterprises and private sponsors.

Head coach M. Suryadi confirmed that the team is fully prepared to compete in the upcoming 2026 World Dragon Boat Championship and World Cup in Hangzhou and Yuanling, China, spanning late September through early October.

Speaking at the official send-off ceremony at Wisma Elang Laut in Jakarta on Monday, September 14, 2026, Suryadi explained that the squad has been training continuously since January. "That was part of our preparation series following the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand. Thank God, we managed to win four gold medals and two silver medals out of six contested events," Suryadi said, on Monday, as quoted by Antara.

To maintain their competitive edge at the higher world-class level, the coaching staff has retained several core athletes from that victorious regional campaign for both the Dragon Boat World Cup in Yuanling and the World Championship in Hangzhou.

The 26-member delegation -- comprising 20 athletes and six officials -- is currently putting the final touches on their preparation so they will be fully ready for the World Championship. They are scheduled to leave for China on September 23 and will return to Indonesia on October 4.

Crucial financial backing from state-owned enterprises and private sponsors, including restaurant chain Solaria, ultimately made the trip possible after earlier funding shortfalls threatened their season.

"We are very grateful for the sponsors, including various state-owned enterprises and Solaria. We thank them because the athletes feel cared for, which allows us to travel and compete," Suryadi expressed.

"They are truly thankful to be able to compete in the World Cup and World Championship. They are thrilled to finally channel the results of their training after missing out on the ASEAN Beach Games,” he concluded. ***