/data/photo/2026/03/28/69c7cb9f61a9b.jpeg "69c7cb9f61a9b.jpeg")
Jakarta – Maarten Paes, the Dutch-Indonesian goalkeeper currently playing for Ajax Amsterdam, has been named the Kelme Indonesia Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year at the prestigious PSSI Awards 2026. The announcement, made Saturday, March 28, 2026, recognizes Paes’s growing influence and skill, not only with his club but increasingly as a key player for the Indonesian national team. The award highlights a significant moment for Indonesian football, celebrating 95 years of the PSSI (Football Association of Indonesia) with a vision of taking “Garuda Mendunia” – Garuda to the World – a testament to the nation’s ambition on the global stage.
Paes edged out a competitive field of nominees including Emil Audero, currently with Cremonese, as well as Indonesian standouts Ernando Ari of Persebaya, Nadeo Argawinata of Borneo FC and Teja Paku Alam of Persib Bandung. The PSSI Awards 2026 served as a platform to acknowledge contributions across the entire Indonesian football ecosystem, a celebration of players, coaches, and supporters alike. The selection process involved a robust period of public voting, both online from January to March and in-person at locations like the MRT Jakarta and Garuda Official Stores, attracting an impressive 790,000 votes from fans across the country.
A Rising Star in Indonesian Football
Paes’s journey to this recognition is a compelling one. Although already a professional in the Dutch Eredivisie, his commitment to representing Indonesia internationally has resonated deeply with fans. He recently earned a starting role under national team coach John Herdman, making a significant impact in the FIFA Series match against Saint Kitts and Nevis on Friday, March 27, 2026, at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. His presence in goal provides a sense of stability and confidence to the Indonesian defense, and his performance against Saint Kitts and Nevis – a 4-0 victory for Indonesia – underscored his value to the team. Erick Thohir, Chairman of the PSSI, recently issued a statement emphasizing the need for continued focus and discipline within the national team, even after such a decisive win.
The PSSI Awards 2026 weren’t solely focused on Paes’s achievement. The event also honored Yance Sayuri with the Assist of the Year award, demonstrating the breadth of talent within Indonesian football. Former Indonesian national team goalkeeper Markus Horison, alongside Jens Raven and Natascha Germania from the Indonesia U23 team, served as presenters for the Goalkeeper of the Year award, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Gratitude and Team Spirit
Upon receiving the award, Paes expressed his sincere gratitude. “Thank you for all the support, thank you for the voting. I want to thank Erick Thohir and everyone at PSSI who believed in me,” Paes said following the ceremony. He also dedicated the honor to his family, specifically acknowledging the unwavering support of his grandmother.
Paes was quick to emphasize the collaborative nature of his success. “This isn’t about ego. It’s about the team process. I enjoy working with Emil, I enjoy working with Nadeo, Cahya [Supriadi], Ernando [Ari Sutaryadi], everyone who works with me. This is about the symbol of the team and Garuda,” he stated, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and collective effort within the national squad.
Looking Ahead
Paes’s recognition comes at a pivotal time for Indonesian football. The national team is actively preparing for upcoming competitions, and the PSSI is focused on developing the sport at all levels. The “Garuda Mendunia” vision represents a long-term commitment to elevating Indonesian football on the international stage, and Paes’s success is seen as a key component of that ambition. The PSSI Awards 2026, with its record-breaking voter turnout, demonstrates the growing passion and engagement of Indonesian football fans.
The next scheduled match for the Indonesian national team is currently under wraps, with the PSSI expected to announce details in the coming weeks. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to observe how Paes continues to perform and contribute to the team’s progress. The focus remains on building a strong and competitive squad capable of achieving success on the global stage.
What do you think about Maarten Paes’s achievement? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow football fans!
