The champions were always comfortable as they prevailed 21-14, 21-12 to spark jubilant scenes.

They had the cushion of eight match points at the end of the final but no nerves were shown and the duo saw out the match at the first opportunity.

It is Indonesia's seventh Olympic gold, each of which have come in badminton. 

It is the first time they have won the mixed doubles title, however. 

"Finally everything that we have put effort into, everything that we want, everything that we have dreamed of has paid off with this win," said Ahmad.

"It is very meaningful for us."

Malaysia's wait for a first Olympic gold in any sport continues, although the silver ensures it is the country's most successful Games as they now boast three medals.

It follows Cheong Jun Hoong and Pandelela Rinong winning a diving silver medal, as well as Azizulhasni Awang claiming cycling bronze yesterday.

"It was about being calm, being focused, good teamwork and not underestimating our opponent," Natsir, winner of the mixed doubles silver alongside Nova Widianto at Beijing 2008, said. 

Chan said a silver medal was still "exciting".

"I feel pretty happy because at the start of the Games we aimed only to win two medals for our team," he said.

"We achieved a silver medal so we're pretty excited.

"Since the start of partnership our dream has been to come to the Olympic Games. 

"Now, with this silver medal I think we did not let anyone down because over the years we have trained hard and lived up to the expectations of our families and coaches.

"After all the hardship, with this silver medal now we have no regrets."

 Zhang Nan and Zhao Yunlei of China had already won the bronze medal, beating their compatriots Xu Chen and Ma Jin, 21-7, 21-11.