Indonesian skateboarder, Mikhayla Shanum. (Photo: Ministry of Youth and Sports)
STAGE The 2025 SEA Games in Thailand will not only be an arena for medals, but will also witness the birth of Indonesia’s future stars. One of the names that has attracted the most attention is Mikhayla Shanum Caya.
At just 11 years old, this talented athlete from the Papuan Mountains has successfully made history as the youngest representative of the Red and White Team at the biggest sporting event in Southeast Asia.
1. Steps Towards the International Stage
Mikhayla’s ability to handle a skateboard didn’t just come by chance. He grew up in a very supportive sports environment, under the guidance of his father, Anthony Adam Caya, who is also a national skateboard athlete. Solid family support was the main foundation for Mikhayla in pursuing the women’s skateboard park event from an early age.
Before flying to Thailand, Mikhayla had already honed her competitive mentality at domestic level. He took part in a skateboard exhibition number at the XXI Aceh–North Sumatra National Sports Week (PON) 2024.
This experience proved effective in building his confidence when he had to face international competitors who were much more senior than him in age and experience.
2. New Hope for National Skateboarding
Even though she came as a young debutant, Mikhayla showed a very promising performance. In the preliminary round, he managed to reach the final after placing seventh with a score of 45.93.
