A brilliant achievement was recorded by the Indonesian Women's National Football Team, which successfully clinched the 2026 Women's AFF Cup title after defeating Laos with a crushing 5-0 score at the Kuala Lumpur Stadium, Malaysia. Behind the physical dominance and prime stamina of the players throughout the tournament was the crucial role of Muchtar Hendra Hasibuan, a lecturer in the Physical Education, Health, and Recreation (PJKR) Study Program at the Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, State University of Jakarta (FIKK UNJ), who served as the fitness coach.
Muchtar integrated modern sport science methods to boost the performance of the Garuda Pertiwi squad. This scientific approach focused on precise physical condition measurements, measured training loads, and rapid recovery programs. This step ensured players avoided injuries while maintaining high intensity of play until the final whistle.
In modern football, physical endurance and agility are the foundation of game tactics. Prime physical readiness allows players to consistently execute the coach's strategy on the field. Through the training program designed by Muchtar, the Indonesian Women's National Team proved that scientific fitness is a key element in winning a tournament with a tight schedule.
The Dean of FIKK UNJ, Prof. Nofi Marlina Siregar, appreciated this achievement and expressed her pride. According to her, Muchtar's active involvement in the national team proves that the academic quality of higher education institutions can make a tangible contribution to the international sports arena while strengthening the relevance of applying sports science in the field.
This collaboration also aligns with the implementation of the Higher Education Tridharma (Three Pillars), particularly in community service through the application of science and technology. It is hoped that Muchtar's practical experience at the international level can be brought back to the classroom to enrich the insights of FIKK UNJ students, while strengthening the synergy between academics and the development of national sporting achievements.
