Daejeon, South Korea – The story of Megawati Hangestri’s impact with the Jung Kwan Jang Red Sparks is one of remarkable success, but a recent turn of events highlights a deeper connection forged with her former opponents. While Megawati has returned to Indonesia to compete with Jakarta Pertamina Enduro in the 2026 Proliga, her time in Korea revealed a fascinating history with several of her Red Sparks teammates – a history that began on opposing sides of the net at the 2018 Asian Games.
The Red Sparks, under coach Ko Hee-jin, recently snapped an 11-game losing streak with a decisive 3-0 victory over GS Caltex (25-23, 25-21, 25-16) on February 2nd at the Jangchung Gymnasium in Seoul. This win, the team’s eighth of the 2025-2026 V-League season, came after a challenging period marked by 25 losses. GS Caltex, currently fourth in the standings with 48 points, saw their playoff hopes diminish with the defeat.
The Red Sparks’ struggles following Megawati Hangestri’s departure last season have been well-documented. The loss of key players like Megawati and Vanja Bukilic, coupled with injuries to Wipawee Srithong and Yeom Hye-seon, significantly impacted the team’s performance. The arrival of new Asian quota player, Inkusi, has yet to provide the expected boost, hampered by inconsistent form and injury issues.
A Serendipitous Reunion
But beyond the on-court challenges, a heartwarming story emerged regarding the connections within the Red Sparks roster. The team boasted a mix of experienced Korean national team players, including Han Song-yi, sister of London 2012 Olympian Han Yoo-mi, alongside captain Park Eun-jin and fellow middle blockers Jung Ho-young. It was during a KBS interview that the surprising link to Megawati’s past was revealed.
During a conversation with Park Eun-jin and Jung Ho-young, Megawati inquired about the possibility of a future trip to Indonesia. Park Eun-jin responded, “We went to the Asian Games.” Megawati’s reply was a revelation: “Oh, the 2018 Asian Games? I was there too, and I took a photo with Kim Yeon-koung!”
The revelation visibly surprised Park Eun-jin, as she realized she and Megawati had previously faced each other as opponents on the international stage. The moment underscored a remarkable twist of fate – from rivals in 2018, they became teammates at the Red Sparks.
“I believe it was destiny, the destiny of Jung Kwan Jang,” Jung Ho-young remarked, grasping Megawati’s hand, a sentiment that encapsulates the unexpected bonds formed within the team.
Megawati’s Impact and Departure
Megawati Hangestri Pertiwi, born September 20, 1999, has become a prominent figure in Indonesian volleyball, currently representing the national team. Standing at 185 cm (6 ft 1 in), the outside/opposite hitter first gained recognition during the 2017 Asian Games, where her performance in the semifinal against Vietnam – contributing the highest points for Indonesia – secured their first final appearance since 1991. Indonesia ultimately lost to Thailand in the final, earning a silver medal.
Her move to the Red Sparks in 2023 marked a significant milestone, not only for her career but similarly for representation in the Korean league, as she became the first hijab-wearing foreign player to compete in the V-League. Over two seasons, Megawati contributed nearly 2,000 points, playing a crucial role in the Red Sparks’ return to the playoffs in the 2023/2024 season and their subsequent run to the finals in 2024/2025.
However, Megawati’s departure from the Red Sparks in April 2025 was motivated by a deeply personal reason: to return home and care for her ailing mother. The Red Sparks organization acknowledged her contributions with a heartfelt message on social media, praising her passion, dedication, and positive impact on the team and its fans.
Looking Ahead
The Red Sparks are now navigating a new chapter without Megawati, relying on emerging talent and the leadership of their remaining core players. The team’s recent victory over GS Caltex offers a glimmer of hope, signaling a potential turning point in their season. However, the absence of Megawati’s offensive firepower and inspirational presence will undoubtedly be felt as they continue to compete in the V-League.
Megawati, meanwhile, is focused on her return to Indonesian volleyball, aiming to lead Jakarta Pertamina Enduro to success in the Proliga. Her journey, from facing Park Eun-jin and Jung Ho-young as opponents to sharing the court with them as teammates, is a testament to the unifying power of sport and the unexpected connections that can be forged through competition and camaraderie.
The Proliga 2026 season is underway, and fans in Indonesia will be eager to witness Megawati’s continued success on home soil. The Red Sparks, though facing challenges, will undoubtedly carry the lessons learned from their time with Megawati as they strive to build a competitive future.
