January 10, 2026 | 10:46 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia’s men’s doubles pair Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri were knocked out in the semi-finals of the BWF World Tour Super 1000 Malaysia Open 2026, confirming that Indonesia ended the season-opening tournament without a title.
The sixth-seeded Indonesians were beaten by Malaysia’s second-seeded duo, Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, in a closely contested straight-games match, 21–23, 18–21, at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
Fajar and Fikri put up a strong challenge, taking the lead at several key moments in both games. However, backed by strong home support, Aaron and Soh remained composed and managed to turn the momentum in the decisive stages.
“They played exceptionally well in front of their home crowd at the Axiata Arena,” Fajar said in a statement released by the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI). “In both the first and second games, we were ahead, but they were able to turn things around.”
Fajar acknowledged that luck played a role at times but stressed the need for self-evaluation. “There were some lucky shots on their side that made a difference, but overall we still need to improve our game,” he said.
Fikri echoed the sentiment, noting that consistency and physical strength remain areas for improvement. “There are still many things we need to work on, especially power and focus. We made some mistakes, and that’s something we have to address,” he said.
The defeat ended Indonesia’s hopes of lifting the Malaysia Open title. Earlier, Indonesia’s men’s singles challenge also came to an end after Jonatan Christie was eliminated in the semi-finals.
Jonatan Christie Reflects on Semi-Final Loss
Jonatan Christie acknowledged the composure and patience of Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn after losing in straight games, 16–21, 16–21, at the same venue on Saturday.
“I’m grateful there were no injuries,” Jonatan said. “I have to admit that today Kunlavut played more patiently and calmly.”
The fourth-seeded Indonesian said he struggled to maintain momentum at crucial moments, despite winning several long rallies. “I could win some extended rallies, but then I gave away points too easily afterward. That’s something I need to work on,” he said.
The loss marked Jonatan’s second consecutive defeat to Kunlavut, following their meeting at the BWF World Tour Finals 2025. However, Jonatan still holds a narrow lead in their overall head-to-head record, with eight wins to Kunlavut’s seven.
Despite falling short of the final, Jonatan remained optimistic about his form heading into upcoming tournaments. “Overall, it’s been quite good. I know where my mistakes were and what I need to improve,” he said. “Reaching the semi-final gives me additional motivation and confidence to perform better in the future.”
Meanwhile, Fajar expressed hope that the enthusiastic atmosphere in Kuala Lumpur could be replicated when Indonesia hosts the Indonesia Masters 2026. “The support here has been amazing since the first day,” he said. “We hope to feel the same energy from the home crowd at Istora in the coming weeks.”
Read: New Indonesia National Team Coach John Herdman Arrives in Jakarta
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