Recently, Indonesian President Joko Widodo has announced plans to completely demolish and rebuild the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang, following a catastrophic stampede that resulted in the loss of 133 lives. The decision to reconstruct the stadium is part of a pledge made by President Widodo to bring Indonesian football up to the standards set by FIFA, the international governing body for soccer.
The fatal incident occurred on October 1st, when a stampede broke out as fans were exiting the stadium after a match between Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya. According to reports, the use of tear gas by the police, which is prohibited by FIFA for crowd control, was found to be the primary cause of the tragedy. The tear gas led to chaotic scenes as spectators attempted to flee through locked or obstructed exit gates, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries.
President Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi, emphasized the need for a complete transformation of Indonesian soccer, a sentiment that was echoed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The two leaders discussed significant reforms during their meeting, focusing on enhancing safety measures and management of the sport in Indonesia.
Following the stadium disaster, Indonesia and FIFA have established a joint task force to address the safety concerns related to football events in the country. With Indonesia set to host the Under-20 World Cup next year, there is heightened attention on ensuring that all stadiums meet the necessary safety requirements and that future events are conducted without any such incidents.
Gianni Infantino stressed the importance of guaranteeing the safety and security of both players and fans, acknowledging Indonesia’s deep-rooted passion for football. He underscored FIFA’s commitment to working closely with the Indonesian government to oversee the implementation of safety standards and the successful execution of the upcoming football championship.
In conclusion, the tragic events at the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang have prompted a fundamental reevaluation of football practices in Indonesia. With the firm commitment of President Widodo and the collaboration with FIFA, there is hope for a new era in Indonesian soccer, characterized by adherence to international standards and the prioritization of safety for all involved.
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