Jakarta. Indonesia is aiming for a top-three finish at the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand this December, Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir said on Thursday night.

Speaking at a press conference at the ministry’s headquarters in Senayan, Jakarta, Erick said the government has set a clear target of securing at least 92 gold medals, an increase from the 87 won at the 2023 edition in Cambodia, where Indonesia placed third overall.

“From our current assessment, we’ve identified potential for 32 gold medals so far. To reach the top three, we need to bring home at least 92 golds,” Erick said. “We must share the same commitment, the athletes we send must be those who are ready to win medals.”

Erick added that Indonesia plans to send between 700 and 800 athletes to Thailand, with the selection focused on disciplines with the highest medal prospects. The minister added that consultations will continue with sports federations to refine medal projections and ensure transparent discussions about targets.

The 33rd SEA Games will take place from December 9 to 20, 2025, across several cities in Thailand.

At the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia, Vietnam topped the medal tally with 136 golds, followed by Thailand with 108. Indonesia trailed in third place with 87 gold, 80 silver, and 109 bronze medals, while host nation Cambodia finished fourth with 81 golds.

Erick is optimistic that with improved preparation, expanded athlete participation, and stronger coordination among sports bodies, Indonesia could narrow the gap with regional powerhouses Vietnam and Thailand.

“Together with the federations, we will identify where we can realistically win golds. This will be a collective and transparent process,” Erick said.