Malaysia count on Jun Hao to strike first against Indonesia

World No. 29 Jun Hao is ready for the challenge but knows he faces a tricky task against world No. 17 Alwi Farhan in the opening match of the final.

"I started well against Kunlavut but couldn't take the crucial points. I need to improve on that," he said.

"I've played Alwi once before at the Korean Open and lost narrowly. This time it's different as it's a team event and I want to perform better."

Jun Hao is determined to make amends for an inconsistent season and deliver for the nation at the SEA Games.

The 26-year-old was pivotal in Malaysia's run to the Thomas Cup semi-finals in China last year.

At the 2023 Phnom Penh SEA Games, he shocked Indonesia's Chico Aura in the men's team final, although Malaysia eventually lost 3-1.

A strong start from the Setapak-born shuttler could provide Malaysia with the momentum to push through the tie.

Malaysia will also rely on world No. 38 Justin Hoh to step up in the second singles, where he will seek revenge against world No. 48 Moh Zaki Ubaidillah, who beat him in their only meeting at the Thailand Masters in January.

If the tie goes down to the wire, world No. 45 Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin will carry Malaysia's hopes in the deciding singles against either world No. 52 Prahdiska Bagas or world No. 80 Yohanes Saut.

In the doubles, world No. 2 Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik are expected to face world No. 8 Sabar Karyaman Gutama-Moh Reza Pahlevi Isfahani, while world No. 5 Wei Chong-Kai Wun are likely to meet world No. 19 Leo Rolly Carnando-Bagas Maulana.

However, men's doubles coach Herry IP may yet spring a surprise by fielding scratch pairings