August Gray, PSIM Yogyakarta Celebrates 96th Anniversary With Joint Prayer

YOGYAKARTA - September is cheerful because PSIM Yogyakarta will enter its 96th age. Exactly September 5, 2025, PSIM celebrates an anniversary that is held simply in prayer together. Because this nation has just gone through 'August Kelubu'.

A long journey from a club that is one of PSSI's founding fathers which is full of meaning. PSIM entered the age of almost a century and when it was founded on September 5, 1929, the Indonesian people were not yet independent.

This shows PSIM is one of the oldest clubs in the archipelago. And, the club, which has just returned to promotion to the highest caste, celebrates its anniversary in the midst of the nation's alarming condition due to the 'August Kelubu' incident.

Demonstrations that claimed lives, not only in the capital city in DKI Jakarta but also in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY). Not only did an Ojol die during a demonstration that was colored by chaos in Jakarta, August 28, 2025.

A private university student also died in a demonstration. The demonstration continued with looting to the residences of council members and ministers. As a result, some people were afraid that the '98 incident would repeat itself so they chose to go abroad.

Laskar Mataram also chose to celebrate the anniversary in simplicity, by prioritizing gratitude and prayers. PSIM President Director, Yuliana Tasno, expressed happiness over the achievements of the club which is now at the level of competition that has long been dream of, namely the Super League. This makes the anniversary feel special.

"Praise be to God Almighty. At the age of 96, PSIM has been at the level of the league that we have long dreamed of," said Liana, her nickname.

When starting the competition, PSIM, which has the status of a promotion team, also made quite an impressive achievement. They set an unbeaten record during the first four matches. In the last match, PSIM successfully defeated the host of North Maluku 2-0.

Carrying the theme "96 Years of Monitoring Heritage, Welcoming Celebration", this anniversary is a momentum to reaffirm the role of the club as the guardian of the Yogyakarta football tradition. This theme is also an invitation for all elements, ranging from management, players, to supporters, to continue to move forward with optimism.

In the midst of an atmosphere of national concern, PSIM management decided not to hold mass birthday celebrations. Instead, the commemoration is held internally simply, through a procession of cutting cones and prayer together.

Towards almost a century of age, PSIM reflects its journey solemnly and gratefully. "We respect and are committed to supporting the city government to keep the atmosphere conducive," said Liana.

"For this reason, we invite the entire PSIM extended family to celebrate with gratitude through their respective prayers, without the need for gathering activities," he added.

Hope and Prayer

The decision to celebrate in simplicity is a reflection of the club's empathy for the nation's situation. This moment is expected to further strengthen solidarity and serve as a reminder that the main strength of PSIM lies in togetherness.

More than just a football club, there is great hope that the presence of Laskar Mataram can continue to be a blessing and joy for the community, both in the Special Region of Yogyakarta and Indonesia.

Liana believes that this noble hope can only be realized if all elements of PSIM always uphold commitment, integrity, and maturity in every step. He also invited the entire family of Laskar Mataram to work together to protect and pray for this proud club.

"Let's keep and pray together so that PSIM continues to inspire and be proud. Happy PSIM's birthday, mogi tansah pinaring rahmatuppun Gusti ingkang Maha Agung," he said.