Jakarta. A vocational high school in Bekasi has become the first in Indonesia to introduce Molkky, a traditional Finnish outdoor throwing game that resembles bowling.

Dozens of students at SMK Mitra Industri MM2100 vocational school in Cibitung, West Java, took part in a Molkky exhibition on Monday. The game uses one throwing pin and 12 numbered wooden pins, which players attempt to knock down to score points. Once pins fall, they are put back in place based on where they land, creating a constantly shifting formation that adds difficulty and strategy. The maximum score in Molkky is 50.

Darwoto, chairman of the Mitra Industri Mandiri Foundation, said the school decided to introduce the game to Indonesia after a visit to Sapporo, Japan, where Molkky has already gained popularity.

“We learned about this Finnish traditional game there, and we believe Indonesia is ready for it. This is the first introduction, starting at SMK Mitra Industri,” he told reporters.

He said Molkky is not only fun and competitive, but also useful in building student focus, strategic thinking, and teamwork. The barrier to entry is also low: Molkky equipment consists of basic wooden pins, which the school’s students can make themselves using their machining tools.

After the launch event, the school plans to promote Molkky to other high schools across West Java through the end of 2025. Depending on interest, local-level Molkky competitions, from district up to provincial level, could begin next year.

Japan Molkky Association representative Edo K. also attended the event to observe the students’ matches.

“I’m very moved by the passion shown by these students,” he said, adding that Indonesia has strong potential to grow the sport as it is inexpensive and easy to learn.

Edo expressed hopes that an Indonesian team, particularly from SMK Mitra Industri MM2100, could eventually compete in the Molkky World Championship scheduled to take place in Shizuoka, Japan, in 2027.

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