President Jokowi Praises Efforts on Combating Football Mafia

President Jokowi delivers a press statement after officiating the expansion of PT Smelting’s factory in PT Smelting area, Gresik regency, East Java province, Thursday (12/14). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Muchlis Jr)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo lauded the Indonesian National Police for its efforts in eradicating online gambling, including in football. The President called on the ranks to continue to undertake eradication measures in the future.

“Previously, the Police arrested those connected with football and online gambling. I believe this is an excellent step. Don’t stop, continue it,” President Jokowi said in his statement after officiating the expansion of PT Smelting’s factory in PT Smelting area, Gresik regency, East Java province, on Thursday (12/14).

President Jokowi underscored that footbal game must be free from mafia practices.

“So, when the football is clean, the game is fair, football transformation in Indonesia will happen,” he said.

The Head of State also underlined that the transformation of Indonesian football will progress when practices such as match-fixing is eliminated.

“There should be no match-fixing, no money games in matches. That is what will drive the transformation of Indonesian football. If this is not resolved, don’t expect our football to level up even though it is improving now,” he said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/AIT) (FI/MMB)