Siti Aisyah's name suddenly became a topic of conversation in the ASEAN Para Games (APG) 2025 Thailand swimming arena, at the Aquatic Center, 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium, Nakhon Ratchasima.
At the young age of 15, and with debutant status, the Indonesian female para-swimmer performed without any burden, swam fearlessly, and returned home with two gold medals and three bronze medals.
This achievement not only exceeded personal targets, but also confirmed the birth of future talent from the water track for the Red and White team.
As the youngest member of the Indonesian para-swimming team, he competed in five events and recorded his best results in the 100-meter and 200-meter backstroke events in the S14 class.
The two gold medals were particularly special because one of them was won by beating Thailand's top swimmer, Nattharinee Khajhonmatha, who had previously held the record in that class.
His debut at an event as prestigious as the ASEAN Para Games did not intimidate him, instead it became a stage for him to prove himself.
Aisyah's success also enriched the medal tally of the Indonesian contingent, which performed solidly throughout the event.
Amidst the intense competition among Southeast Asian swimmers, the young athlete from Padang City, West Sumatra, was able to maintain consistency from the preliminary round to the final, paddling the water with a calm rhythm and driven by confidence.
"Initially, I only targeted one number. I just followed the coach's instructions and gave my best effort. Winning or losing was a later matter," he said.
