Loh Kean Yew eyes revenge against Indonesian teen in Jakarta

Singapore’s top shuttler Loh Kean Yew faces a familiar stumbling block on Thursday (Jan 22) as he takes on Indonesian rising star Moh. Zaki Ubaidillah in the round of 16 at the Daihatsu Indonesia Masters 2026.

Moh. Zaki Ubaidillah. Source: PBSI

JAKARTA — The 28-year-old Singaporean, currently ranked world No. 10, will be seeking redemption at the Istora Senayan after a shock defeat to the Indonesian youngster in their only previous encounter at the 2025 SEA Games semi-finals.

The 18-year-old Indonesian, affectionately known as Ubed, enters today's clash in buoyant form. On Wednesday, the 2025 Asian Junior champion dispatched India’s Kiran George 21-17, 21-14 in the opening round, demonstrating poise despite an early deficit in the first game.

"I am grateful for the win and for remaining injury-free," said Ubed, the world No. 46. "I tried to stay calm even though I was trailing in the first game. There is definitely pressure, but I managed to overcome it."

Despite his lower ranking, the PB Djarum trainee holds a psychological edge over Loh, having recorded a convincing 21-19, 21-10 victory during their last meeting. 

However, Ubed is wary of the 2021 world champion’s pedigree and recent resurgence. Loh secured his spot in the second round after a clinical 21-13, 21-12 win over Denmark’s Magnus Johannesen on Wednesday.

"I cannot afford to be complacent even though I have won against him before," Ubed told reporters in Jakarta. "My focus now is on physical recovery to ensure I am ready for the match."

A victory for the Indonesian would see him reach his minimum target of a quarter-final berth at this BWF World Tour Super 500 event. For Loh, a win is essential to maintain his momentum as he looks to re-establish himself among the world's top five.

The home crowd will have plenty to cheer for today, with other Indonesian heavyweights Anthony Sinisuka Ginting, Alwi Farhan, and Muhamad Yusuf also vying for spots in the last eight. Matches are scheduled to begin at 8 am (9 am Singapore time).