The operator of the Indonesian soccer league, PT Liga Indonesia Baru (LIB), has recently taken the initiative to investigate troubling allegations of racial abuse directed at three players from PSM Makassar following a match against Persija. The players, Yuran Fernandes, Lance Sayuri, and Erwin Gutawa, were reportedly subjected to online racist attacks after their team achieved a 1-1 draw against their opponents.
CEO Ferry Paulus of LIB emphasized that anyone found to be involved in the online racist attacks would face sanctions for their actions. Making firm statements on the matter, Ferry Paulus revealed that the issue has received significant attention from the authorities, including the Indonesian soccer governing body PSSI. He quoted the PSSI chairman, Erick Thohir, stating that a directive had been issued to conduct an internal probe into the incident in order to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Additionally, he referred to the seriousness of the online attacks, highlighting the existence of applicable laws, particularly the Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law that addresses such unlawful behavior.
The racial slurs directed at the PSM players on social media have caused public outrage, with calls for action from various organizations. The Indonesian Association of Professional Soccer Players (APPI) has urged the Soccer Association of Indonesia (PSSI) to consider suspending Liga 1 in response to the racist abuse. In contrast, PSSI chairman Erick Thohir has refrained from addressing the call to suspend the league. However, he has made a commitment to addressing the issue and taking decisive measures against racist abuse.
Such incidents have sparked widespread discussion and concern, prompting the public to engage in dialogue and share their thoughts and experiences regarding the matter. The Jakarta Post has extended an invitation for individuals to share their experiences, suggestions, and any issues encountered, demonstrating the importance of addressing social issues and fostering open conversation within the community.
The initiation of an investigation into the alleged racial abuse in the Persija-PSM Makassar match signifies a positive step towards addressing the issue of racism within the sports community. It is imperative for all individuals to come together to combat discriminatory behavior and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity in sports and society as a whole.
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