Bangkok: The Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF) announced that the challenge system will be made mandatory for all sepak takraw events at the SEA Games 2025 in Thailand, reinforcing its commitment to fairness, accuracy, and integrity in the sport.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, ASTAF president Datuk Abdul Halim Kader stated that the introduction of the challenge system at the biennial Games marks another milestone in the modernization of sepak takraw under the leadership of ASTAF and the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF). By integrating multi-angle, high-frame-rate camera systems, the challenge system aims to bridge the gap between human judgment and digital precision. It provides conclusive slow-motion evidence to verify decisions, promotes transparency, and preserves the integrity of the sport.

Abdul Halim emphasized that the system enhances the credibility of referee decisions, reducing post-match disputes and preserving the spirit of sportsmanship. He noted that both federations remain committed to ensuring the sport evolves in line with global standards by combining human expertise with digital accuracy to uphold the values of integrity, fairness, and professionalism.

ASTAF first introduced the challenge system during the Thailand King’s Cup in the 2022 edition. The SEA Games 2025 are scheduled to take place from December 9 to 20 in three provinces: Bangkok, Chonburi, and Songkhla.