JAKARTA, July 30 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia will host the 2025 Southeast Asia (SEA) U18 and U20 Athletics Championships this November, according to a statement released Wednesday by Tigor M. Tanjung, secretary general of the Executive Board of the Indonesian Athletics Association.

The 17th edition of the championships is scheduled to take place from November 15 to 18 at Madya Stadium in Medan, capital of North Sumatra province.

Around 250 athletes from 11 Southeast Asian countries and regions are expected to participate. Notably, this will be the first time the U20 category is included in the competition.

"This championship has been held regularly since 2006 and this year marks its 17th edition. We selected Madya Stadium in Medan because it meets international class 1 standards, making it suitable for major events, even on par with the Olympics," Tanjung said.

He added that Indonesia last hosted the event in 2011, and this year's edition serves as a good opportunity for the country to strengthen its position in Asian athletics. ■