Kenang Tan Joe Hok, Firli Bahuri: Badminton Legend And The Soul Of Patriot Sejati

JAKARTA - Former Chairman of the KPK, Komjen (Ret.) Firli Bahuri, expressed his deep sorrow over the death of Indonesian badminton legend, Tan Joe Hok, who passed away on Monday, June 2, 2025.

As a fellow badminton lover and active member of the Indonesian Badminton Community (KBI), Firli has personal memories with the figure of the 1959 All England champion and the 1962 Asian Games gold winner. Tan Joe Hok was also part of history when he brought Indonesia to the first Thomas Cup in 1958.

"I know the late Tan Joe Hok quite well. He is not only an athlete, but a national figure with a spirit of patriotism and extraordinary nationalism. He competes for the nation and state," Firli said in his statement, Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

Firli said Tan Joe Hok had dedicated his life to Indonesia through badminton. He believes the spirit of Tan Joe Hok will continue to live in the younger generation of national athletes, especially in the midst of the Indonesia Open 2025 performance.

"This nation has lost. We pray that he will have the best place by God's side. Hopefully the family will be given strength and sincerity. Hopefully, Indonesia can also record champions," said Firli.

Al-Fitr, Saqlawase

One of Firli's most memorable memories occurred on November 18, 2024, during the "Seduluran, Saklawase" event held by KBI. This event was also attended by Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Taufik Hidayat and Chairman of KBI Harijanto Arbi.

At that moment, Tan Joe Hok gave a speech and handed over his favorite racket to Firli and his wife, Dina Firli Bahuri.

"He said the racket was his property. He wanted to hand it over to me and my wife. Those are the most beautiful memories that I will never forget," said Firli.

Tan Joe Hok is known to actively attend various KBI activities, including during an appreciation for Kevin Sanjaya/Marcus Gideon in an event entitled "The Best Fighter is My Partner" at GOR Djarum, as well as an award for the Hendra Setiawan/Mohamad Ahsan pair at the "Thank You Very Much to the Dadies" event on Fly Power.

"His attention to the badminton world is extraordinary. Hopefully his enthusiasm and struggle inspires future generations," said Firli.