FIFA Completed 2nd Phase of Stadium Safety Visits in Indonesia

TheIndonesia.id - A team from the international football governing body FIFA completed the second phase of visits to support the transformation of football stadiums in Indonesia on December 15, according to the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI).

The initiative aims to improve security and safety standards at stadiums across the country, thereby making the football-watching experience safer and more comfortable.

It was prompted by the tragedy at Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang in October 2022, when police fired tear gas, causing Arema FC supporters to flee the stadium. The incident claimed 135 lives.

To prevent the recurrence of similar incidents, the PSSI and FIFA are working together to create a safer, more inclusive football environment and rebuild public trust in football as a means of national unity.

"This collaboration is our real commitment to improving the quality and safety of football stadiums in Indonesia," PSSI chairperson Erick Thohir said in a statement released on Thursday, as quoted by Antara.

"With support from FIFA, we want to ensure that our stadiums meet international standards so players, officials, and fans can enjoy football with a sense of security. This is an important step in building a better football environment in Indonesia," he added.

The first phase of the study was conducted by FIFA in May 2024, covering eight stadiums. In the second phase, the scope expanded to 21 stadiums located across 12 provinces.

The renovation projects are being carried out by the Ministry of Public Works, following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by PSSI and FIFA on the transformation of stadium security and safety in the country.

The MoU was inked during the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia.

The project also involves various stakeholders, including clubs from League 1 and League 2, contractors, and local governments.

The FIFA team that visited Indonesia included Ben Veenbrink and Lavin Vignesh from the FIFA Lead Regional Office.

During the visit, they provided detailed recommendations to improve stadium security, develop safety guidelines aligned with Indonesia's conditions and needs, and design a stadium certification and licensing system meeting international standards.

The results of the visit will serve as a primary guide for future stadium renovations and development, ensuring high safety standards to honor the memory of the victims of the Kanjuruhan tragedy.