Indonesia has warned it may boycott the 2027 SEA Games after Malaysia cut several traditional sports from the schedule. The decision could reshape the competition for athletes and nations alike.

Indonesian officials said the removal of sports such as rowing, canoeing, traditional boat racing, wrestling, chess, kickboxing, jiu‑jitsu, sport climbing and triathlon prompted the boycott threat. They argue that the host’s choices undermine athletes’ opportunities. The Olympic Council of Malaysia replied that no country had objected when the list was first proposed and that the programme cannot be expanded now.

The excluded sports had been a major source of Indonesia’s medals in the 2025 Games. The Indonesian Rowing Association reported that rowing contributed nine medals, while the Indonesian Climbing Federation noted four gold medals in sport climbing, and the triathlon team earned seven gold medals.

Indonesian federations said the cuts deny elite athletes the chance to defend their titles and disrupt national training plans. They also claimed the decision breaches an agreement reached at a May 2024 SEAGF meeting that set the sports programme for 2025, 2027 and 2029.

The Southeast Asian Games Federation approved a reduced programme of 43 sports and 473 events on Oct 30, dropping seven sports and 100 events compared with the 2025 edition. Malaysia’s Olympic Council defended the final list, stating that the schedule was already fixed and could not be changed.

If the boycott proceeds, Indonesia could lose the chance to compete in events where it traditionally excels, lowering its medal tally and adding tension to regional sports cooperation. The controversy shows how changes to a games programme can directly affect athletes, national goals, and diplomatic relations.