Liga 1 Again Held But Without Spectators

JAKARTA - The government has decided to hold Liga 1 for the 2022 season again after previously being stopped due to the tragedy of the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang, East Java.

"This league match is allowed without spectators. Without any spectators," said Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Mahfud MD at a press conference at his office, Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat, Central Jakarta, Monday, December 5.

Mahfud also ensured that the reform of the All-Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) would continue. All stakeholders will continue to hold talks with FIFA.

In addition, the investigation into the tragedy of the Kanjuruhan Stadium that killed hundreds of supporters of Arema FC or Aremania will continue. He ensured that the findings of the Joint Independent Team for Fact Findings (TGIPF) of the Impact Tragedy continued.

"Then the stadiums have begun to be built, prepared to be renovated to meet international standards," he said.

"Then the ongoing legal processes will continue in accordance with applicable legal provisions," continued Mahfud.

The Kanjuruhan Stadium tragedy occurred on Saturday, October 1. The chaos began when a number of Aremania entered the field area after Arema FC was defeated by Persebaya Surabaya with a final score of 2-3.

At that time, joint officers from the police and the TNI tried to dispel the supporters and eventually used tear gas. In fact, this should be prohibited.

As a result of the incident, 135 people were reported to have died from fractures, trauma to the head, neck, and asphysia or reduced oxygen levels in the body. In addition, it was also reported that hundreds of people suffered minor injuries including serious injuries.