Indonesian President Joko Widodo has recently announced plans to demolish and rebuild the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang, in response to the tragic stampede that led to the loss of 133 lives. The decision to reconstruct the stadium reflects a commitment to bringing Indonesian football in line with FIFA’s standards, as stated by President Widodo following a meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
The stampede occurred on October 1, when spectators were exiting the stadium after a match between Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya. Investigations revealed that the use of tear gas by the police, overcrowding of the stadium, locked exit doors, and the scheduling of the match at night were all contributing factors to the tragic incident.
In response, President Widodo has assured that the stadium will be rebuilt in accordance with FIFA standards, and significant changes will be made to football management in Indonesia. Furthermore, the meeting between President Widodo and FIFA President Infantino has resulted in the establishment of a joint task force to address the stadium tragedy, as Indonesia gears up to host the Under-20 World Cup next year.
Emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of players and fans in Indonesia, FIFA President Infantino has stated that it is crucial for the over 100 million football enthusiasts in the country to feel secure when attending matches. As part of this commitment, FIFA will closely collaborate with the Indonesian government to ensure that all stadiums meet safety requirements, with a focus on the upcoming 2023 Under-20 World Cup.
The planned reconstruction of the stadium stands as a testament to Indonesia’s dedication to upholding safety standards in sports facilities and reflects a step towards the comprehensive transformation of football in the country.
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