President Jokowi, FIFA President Agree on Thorough Transformation of Indonesian Football
President Jokowi receives FIFA’s red jersey with his name printed across it, after a joint press statement at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday (10/18). (Photo by: PR of Cabinet Secretariat/Rahmat)
The Indonesian Government and the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) have agreed to carry out a thorough transformation of Indonesian football and ensure all aspects of the match will run in compliance with FIFA safety standards, according to President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo.
“We agree to re-evaluate the feasibility of stadium building and to utilize available technology to help mitigating any potential that may endanger spectators and players,” the President stated after attending a meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday (10/18).
The President went on to say that the Government and FIFA also agreed to ensure that the FIFA Under-20 World Cup will run smoothly next year.
“[All measures] from the preparation to implementation must be carried out properly and professionally according to FIFA standards,” the President said, adding that the two parties also agreed to jointly evaluate the Indonesian football stakeholders.
“The Government will work alongside FIFA to assure the transformation process of Indonesian football meets the requirements. Thus, let’s seize this moment to improve the Indonesian football system so it serves better and becomes national pride,” he asserted.
On that occasion, the President said that FIFA President also expressed his deep condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims and expressed their concern for the tragedy occurred at Kanjuruhan Stadium, Malang, East Java province.
“The tragedy is a valuable lesson for Indonesian football and the world of football. Do not let this incident occur again. Do not let the excitement of football fans turn to grief and disaster,” the President conclusively remarked. (FID/UN) (RIF/HD/MMB)
