Bangkok — The men’s badminton team final at the 2025 SEA Games will once again feature a familiar rivalry: Malaysia vs Indonesia. Just as in the 2023 edition, the two regional powerhouses are set for another high-stakes battle. This time, Malaysia is determined to end a 20-year gold-medal drought, with their last triumph dating back to the 2005 Manila SEA Games.
Malaysia sealed their place in the final after defeating host nation Thailand 3–1 in Monday’s semifinal, while defending champions Indonesia swept Singapore by the same scoreline.
Team-first mentality drives Malaysia forward
Malaysia’s singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen praised his players’ overall performance but reminded fans that the semifinal victory reflected collective effort—not individual brilliance.
“In team events, I rarely single out players, but Justin Hoh was exceptionally steady today,” Jonassen said.
“Playing Thailand on home soil is never easy. Their crowd support is incredible, so we are proud to come away with this win. Now we must maintain the same spirit for the final.”
Malaysia is expected to field their strongest lineup in the title decider as they chase redemption for the 3–1 defeat to Indonesia in the previous SEA Games final.
Key Matchups to Watch in the Final
1. First Men’s Singles: Leong Jun Hao vs Alwi Farhan
Leong Jun Hao will likely take on 2023 World Junior Champion Alwi Farhan.
Their most recent meeting was earlier this year in the Korea Open, where Alwi defeated Jun Hao 2–0—giving the Indonesian a psychological edge.
2. First Men’s Doubles: Aaron Chia / Soh Wooi Yik vs Sabar Karyaman Gutama / Moh Reza Pahlevi Isfahani
World No. 2 Aaron Chia / Soh Wooi Yik are anticipated to face world No. 8 Gutama / Isfahani.
Although the Malaysians trail 1–2 in their head-to-head record, their last clash at the HYLO Open went to three games, showing the margin is razor thin.
Chia/Soh defeated Thailand’s Jomkoh/Sukphun in the semifinal 21–18, 21–19, but their performance lacked the sharpness fans expect. The coaching team believes there is room for improvement.
3. Second Men’s Singles: Justin Hoh vs Zaki Ubaidillah
Justin Hoh looks set to meet Zaki Ubaidillah, with the Malaysian eager to avenge his January Thailand Masters loss, where he fell in three games.
4. Second Men’s Doubles: Man Wei Chong / Tee Kai Wun vs Leo Rolly Carnando / Bagas Maulana
This matchup promises a thriller.
Man Wei Chong / Tee Kai Wun hold a 2–1 lead over the Indonesian pair, including a hard-fought win in the HYLO Open Round of 16.
🏸 Malaysia’s Doubles Strength Is Key — But Pressure Remains
Malaysia’s men’s doubles head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi acknowledged that Malaysia holds a clear advantage in the doubles department—but warned against complacency.
“Malaysia is stronger in doubles, both first and second pairs. But pressure is normal in big matches—you can’t avoid it,” he said.
Regarding Chia/Soh’s form, Herry added:
“This is their first tournament back after a month. Their semifinal wasn’t their best. Hopefully they sharpen up in the final.”
He also expressed confidence in the depth of the squad:
“Our doubles pairs must stay calm and focused. Indonesia is balanced in singles and doubles, so discipline and match preparation will be crucial.”
Could the Title Be Decided by the Third Singles Match?
If the first four matches split 2–2, the gold medal will come down to the third men’s singles tie.
Malaysia is expected to field Aidil Sholeh, who has delivered solid performances throughout the year. He will meet Indonesia’s Prahdiska Bagas Shujiwo, with both players facing each other for the first time on the international stage.
A Historic Opportunity
With momentum building and team morale high, Malaysia has a real chance to reclaim the men’s team title after two decades.
However, Indonesia remains a formidable opponent across all disciplines, setting the stage for a dramatic, unpredictable final in Bangkok.
