Rizki Juniansyah Receives SEA Games Bonus and Rare Two-Rank Promotion

JAKARTA, Investortrust.id — Indonesian weightlifting star Rizki Juniansyah received a state bonus and formal recognition from President Prabowo Subianto during the SEA Games Thailand 2025 award ceremony on Thursday, Jan 8, 2026 in Jakarta, following a record-breaking gold medal performance. The ceremony marked one of the highest-profile acknowledgments of an athlete’s achievement under the current administration.

Rizki secured gold in the men’s 79 kilogram category after lifting 160 kilograms in the snatch and 205 kilograms in the clean and jerk, posting a total of 365 kilograms. The clean and jerk lift set a new world record under his name and surpassed the previous total record held by Egyptian lifter Abdelrahman Younes.

During the ceremony at the State Palace, Prabowo highlighted Rizki’s achievement as an example of discipline and sacrifice at the international level. In a brief exchange, the president also offered personal advice related to managing the bonus for long-term stability.

“Save it, so when you get married later you can have a good home,” Prabowo said.

Rizki’s success also translated into an extraordinary career milestone within the Indonesian Armed Forces. Prabowo confirmed that Agus Subiyanto approved a two-rank promotion for the athlete, elevating him directly from second lieutenant to captain.

“I received a report that the Armed Forces Commander promoted this athlete by two ranks, from second lieutenant straight to captain, because you have upheld the honor of the Indonesian nation on the world stage,” Prabowo said.

The government distributed total bonuses of Rp 465.25 billion, equal to $30.1 million, to SEA Games 2025 medalists and coaches. Prabowo stressed that the funds were intended as recognition and long-term security rather than short-term compensation.

“When we give financial awards, the intention is for them to become savings for your future, not simply to pay wages,” he said. “This is recognition.”

Rizki’s rise has also influenced institutional planning within the military. The Armed Forces announced plans to establish a dedicated sports battalion to recruit and develop elite athletes while allowing them to serve as soldiers.