The SEA Games are not just a sporting event. It’s a celebration that brings together millions of people across Southeast Asia every two years. Eleven countries, dozens of sports, and endless passion.

From football to pencak silat, it’s all about pride, dedication, and perseverance. It’s a bit like the Olympic Games, but with that unmistakable Asian energy you feel the moment you step into the stadium.

In Indonesia, it’s a national celebration. The streets turn red and white, families gather around the TV, and the national anthem echoes everywhere. For a player, this is the dream moment, the chance to represent something bigger than yourself.

An Honor to Play for Indonesia

That moment when I put on the red jersey never loses its magic. You feel the weight of the nation on your shoulders, but also its strength. When the anthem plays and the flag rises, you get goosebumps.

The fans are incredible. They sing, dance, and cheer for ninety minutes straight. It’s so intense that you forget how tough the match really is. Every sprint, every pass, every tackle—it’s all for Indonesia.

For me, playing for the national team isn’t just a match. It’s an honor. And every time I wear that shirt, I feel proud.

The Power of Southeast Asia

Football in Southeast Asia is more than a game. It’s part of who we are.

Everywhere you look, you see kids playing barefoot, families watching together, and supporters giving everything for their team. The energy is unbelievable.

In Indonesia, football lives a little stronger. Fans travel for hours just to be there. They never stop singing, no matter the score. That sense of connection is something truly special.

And maybe that’s the most beautiful thing of all: sport brings people together. Different languages, cultures, and backgrounds blend into one great feeling of pride.

Team Spirit and Determination

Behind every success is a team that works incredibly hard. We train intensely, often in the heat, and push each other to improve every day.

It’s not just about talent; it’s about discipline, trust, and yes, joy. Because if you don’t enjoy it, you won’t last long.

What makes this team special is how different we are. We don’t all speak the same language, but we share one dream. That’s what connects us.

The culture here is different from Europe. After every training, we pray together. We take a moment to reflect and feel grateful.

One time, I forgot to join the prayer. Not on purpose, I was just lost in my own thoughts. I was called out for it, and rightly so.
Because respect is part of who we are.

More Than Football

The SEA Games aren’t just about competition. They’re about people.

After matches, you meet players from other countries, talk, laugh, swap shirts, and share stories. It reminds you how big the world is – and how close it can feel.

Everyone here shares the same goal: to grow, to mean something, to make their country proud. It’s inspiring. It shows that sport is about connection, not just results.

What This Tournament Means to Me

For me, playing in the SEA Games is a dream come true. I’ve worked hard for this. Falling, getting up, and moving forward.

For years, I played among boys. It wasn’t always easy. The locker rooms were tricky; sometimes I had to change in the referee’s room or even the bathroom. And yes, people laughed.

But I didn’t let it break me. Giving a nutmeg and seeing those surprised faces? That was my answer.

Thankfully, there were also parents who came up to me after games saying, “You play so well.” That gave me the strength to keep going.

That’s why this tournament means more than just a few matches. It’s proof that dreams can come true if you keep believing.

Chasing Dreams

Looking back, I feel nothing but gratitude. Everything I’ve experienced, from playing with the boys to wearing Indonesia’s colors, has shaped me.

My dream? To play with Indonesia at a major tournament. The World Cup.

We’ve already taken big steps, and if we stay united, I believe we can compete with Asia’s best.

I want to inspire the next generation to dream big and never give up. Because if I can do it, so can you.

I hope everyone continues to support us. Because only together can we make Indonesia proud.