The DAIHATSU Astec Open is an annual badminton tournament in Indonesia that provides high-quality competition for young shuttlers in Asia. In line with the Daihatsu's objective of promoting badminton from a young age, this most prominent youth badminton tournament hosted its 13th event in 7 cities in Indonesia with the new record as 4,992 total number of participants ranging from age 11 until veteran players.

After previous series in 7 cities in Indonesia, starting from Pekanbaru (4-8 April), Bandar Lampung (24-28 April), Balikpapan (16-20 May), Makassar (12-16 July), Malang (25-29 July), Semarang (16-19 August) and last in Jakarta, finally DAIHATSU Astec Open ended with the Final Round on September 23rd at Tanjung Priok Youth Center, Sunter, North Jakarta.

Amongst some heated games, U17 single female and U13 single male games became crowd favorite above all. Cheers from audience, their families and supporters, also the stick balloons overcrowd the venue. Players were showing their impressive skills as the game drew attention to the VVIP Guest like Persatuan Bulutangkis Seluruh Indonesia Chairman, Mr. Wiranto.

“Since in early age, I’ve already played badminton, maybe since I was in kindergarten. My dream is someday I can reach the world stage and this is the beginning path for me,” said Alwi Farhan, the U13 single male winner.

The awarding session was also the special part as some principal guests coming; such as Youth and Sport Minister, Mr. Imam Nahrawi and Mr. Wiranto and also some national badminton legends; to grant the trophy for winners.

“We are extremely happy because in every Daihatsu Astec series we held, the game and also audience are always great and full of enthusiastic,” said Mr. Alan Budikusuma.

In an effort to promote inclusiveness to nurture the Indonesia’s budding shuttlers, badminton player Bellaetrix Manuputty made an appearance before her final game at the courtside to give support and advice to her fellow young players.

Said Bellaetrix “These types of tournaments allow for people of different diversities and skills to get together and play a sport that they love.”

I was impressed by the amount of people that showed up to support their kids! This means a lot to the young players and they will grow up knowing that their family and friends are supporting their journey.

Also, it was good to see that there were a lot of competition in the different age groups. This shows that our young players are not afraid to sign up for local tournaments to help them develop into a better player.

I think there’s a lot of potential on display! It’s more important for the kids to have fun before they develop a good understanding of the game.

They were all so competitive but it’s enlightening to see the kids smiling and being all sportsmanlike with one another.

As for myself, since I was participating too, this game means a lot for me. This is also my opportunity to come back to the court. I am so happy to be part of this event.

Award ceremony was quite well done, and it’s nice seeing all the smiling faces from everyone. It’s important for these young competitors to celebrate their victories with their family and friends.