SEA Games Bonuses to be Directly Transferred to Athletes' Accounts, Government Prepares Final Scheme

The Indonesian government is preparing to fulfill an important promise to the medalists of the SEA Games Thailand 2025. Amid the euphoria of the Red and White Team's achievements, attention now focuses on how bonuses will be distributed, with a simpler mechanism this time.

Youth and Sports Minister (Menpora) Erick Thohir confirmed that the Athlete Bonus scheme for SEA Games Thailand 2025 is currently under review by the Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu).

This process isn't merely procedural but an adjustment to align the bonus scheme with the President's directives while accommodating diverse sports disciplines and events.

Erick stated that the scheme is being reviewed regarding the amounts to be awarded to gold, silver, and bronze medalists at the Southeast Asian sports event.

"Yes, we are currently submitting it according to the President's instructions to the authorities, namely the Minister of Finance. Hopefully within a day or two we will send the figures (for the bonus scheme)," said Erick in Jakarta on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

Adjusted Bonus Scheme, Simplified Mechanism

President Prabowo Subianto's pledge of Rp1 billion bonuses for gold medalists remains the primary benchmark, though technical implementation will adapt to each sport's characteristics.

Erick mentioned adjustments will be made to bonus amounts for athletes contributing medals to the Red and White Team.

When asked about specific bonus figures being prepared, Erick declined to disclose details as they remain under Ministry of Finance review.

However, he emphasized the disbursement mechanism will be direct and personal. Bonuses will be transferred straight to athletes' accounts.

"All will be directly transferred to their respective accounts. We also request our athletes—my younger siblings—to truly save this bonus money. It's for their future," Erick said.

At SEA Games Thailand 2025, Indonesia recorded one of its largest medal hauls in participation history.

The Red and White Team collected 333 medals: 91 gold, 111 silver, and 131 bronze.

This achievement placed Indonesia second in the final Standings, behind overall Champion Thailand.(Antara)