Suparwono, who like many Indonesians goes by just one name, stands 2.71 metres (8.89 feet) tall according to unofficial measurements, compared to Kosen's record height of 2.47 metres.
"I started to realise my exceptional height when I was 10 years old. At that time, I was already the tallest at my school and in my village," he told AFP between television appearances. "I eat three kilograms (6.61 pounds) of rice every day and at least 15 eggs," he added.
One of five children, he hoped as a teenager to be a basketball star but his body couldn't stand the stress of elite sport, according to his former coach, Willy Winoto. "After two years of training we found that he was unable to become a national athlete because of his bone problems. His anatomical structure isn't good enough to be an athlete," Winoto said.
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