Minimizing Football Fan Violence: The Importance of Setting Organizational Rules from the Ground Up

The issue of supporter violence in football has persisted, but The Jakmania, the supporters group of Persija Jakarta, has taken proactive measures to address this problem. Through a thorough instillation of organizational rules, they have successfully reduced violent behavior among their members.

Jiva Baskoro, the General Secretary of The Jakmania, emphasizes the importance of instilling a sense of responsibility and respect for the rules from the outset. Prospective members are required to fully understand and adhere to the organization’s rules and regulations before joining, ensuring that each member is equipped to respond appropriately to the team’s performance.

The deliberate approach to educating members about proper conduct has proven effective. Members not only support their team, Persija, but also represent The Jakmania. By upholding the organization’s rules, supporters demonstrate their commitment to maintaining the positive reputation of both the team and the supporters group.

In addition to the detailed briefing during the registration process, The Jakmania engages its Field Coordinators (Korlap) to continuously disseminate important information to its members. Regular communication and reminders are integrated into the game day experience, whether it is a home match or an away game.

A significant role of the Field Coordinators is to display banners containing essential guidelines and appeals to all members of The Jakmania. These visual cues serve as constant reminders for supporters to conduct themselves in a manner that minimizes conflicts with other parties, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable atmosphere for all involved.

This emphasis on foundational understanding and adherence to rules is not only crucial for the organization, but also has broader implications for the safety and well-being of individuals both inside and outside of football stadiums. Recent tragic events, such as the chaos following a match between Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya, underscore the urgency of addressing supporter conduct.

The implementation of these measures by The Jakmania serves as a valuable example for other supporters groups facing similar challenges. By nurturing a culture of accountability and respect from the grassroots level, it is possible to create a positive and inclusive environment for all football enthusiasts. Through collective efforts, it is possible to enjoy the beautiful game without compromising the safety and dignity of others.