Gov’t Affirms Commitment to Transformation of Indonesian Football

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Chairperson of the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) Erick Thohir, delivers a press statement after the inauguration of a new FIFA Office in Jakarta, Friday (11/10). (Photo by: PR of Cabinet Secretariat/Agung)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has affirmed the Government’s commitment to continuously drive the transformation of the country’s football with the support of the International Football Federation (FIFA).

“We talked about transforming Indonesian football a year ago, and we’re serious about it, fully committed to getting started. President Gianni along with the FIFA Office in Jakarta, is providing full support for this endeavor,” President Jokowi said in a press statement after the inauguration of the FIFA Office in Jakarta, Friday (11/10).

According to the President, the support and guidance from FIFA also signify a new chapter for football in the country.

“FIFA will offer comprehensive support and guidance, covering match management, security, and refereeing. Every aspect will be fully supported,” the President said.

The President went on to say that Indonesia is currently making significant improvements, including infrastructure support and advancements in refereeing standards.

“We’ve tackled refereeing issue and started revitalizing 30 stadiums. These efforts are in line with governance and management practices supported by FIFA,” he said.

In the meantime, FIFA President Gianni Infantino reiterated that FIFA will provide comprehensive support for the development of football in Indonesia, including governance and training camps.

“We work together for Indonesian football, focusing on security against match-fixing, maintaining integrity, and most importantly, fostering the development of men’s and women’s football, supporting young individuals through the FIFA Academy Training Center,” Infantino said.

On that occasion, the FIFA President pointed out that Indonesia plays a crucial role in the football scene in Southeast Asia and the broader East Asia region.

“We want to make a tangible impact, not only within Indonesia but also across the entire region,” he added.

The FIFA President mentioned that initially, the FIFA office in Jakarta would have a staff of 20 to 30 people, while adding that there are plans for future development to expand and make the office even larger.

“Being in a country that is investing in the future in every aspect, is the ideal place for FIFA to collaborate and work together for the future of Indonesia and all of Southeast Asia,” the FIFA President remarked. (DND/UN) (RIF/LW)