Iwan Budianto Makes Aremania Calm, Arema FC Existence Will Continue To Be Maintained

The majority shareholder of PT Arema Aremania Berprestasi (PT AABBI) Iwan Budianto (center). (Photo via ANTARA/Arema FC)

Some time ago, news emerged that Arema FC would disperse. That's because the situation in Malang City is increasingly unfavorable after Arema FC's office was damaged.

There are concerns that this step will be taken by the management of Arema FC. However, the majority shareholder of PT Arema Aremania Bersatu Berprestasi (PT AABBI) Iwan Budianto gave a calming statement.

He ensured that Arema FC's existence would be maintained despite various dynamics after the Malang Kanjuruhan Tragedy. The man who is familiarly called IB is committed to maintaining Arema FC's existence in the world of Indonesian football together with Aremania.

"In a situation like this we have to work together. I will still take care of Arema FC with Aremania," said Iwan, as directed by Antara, Saturday, March 4.

Iwan did not deny that there was a disturbance after the riot incident at the Arema FC Office on January 29. Moreover, in the action, demands were also conveyed asking Arema FC not to continue the competition.

At that time, he continued, there was indeed a statement to dissolve the club nicknamed Singo Edan. The plan to dissolve Arema FC was also discussed with former Arema FC President Gilang Widya Pramana.

"I communicated about the disbandment plan. But they left it entirely to me," said IB.

IB held a meeting with a number of representatives of Arema FC supporters who are commonly known as Aremania. During the meeting, Aremania questioned the existence of the club, which is currently 12th in the Liga 1 standings.

He added that when the tragedy that left 135 people dead and hundreds injured, he focused on helping the victims.

"My understanding at that time was what we did after the disaster, namely helping victims and completing compensation to families," he explained.

At that time, he continued, Arema FC management finally formed a crisis center and Arema FC tried to help as much as possible to distribute compensation. IB hopes that meetings with Aremania representatives can be held as often as possible.

"I want a moment like this again, of course with a bigger meeting. We will arrange it later. We want to empower and revive Aremania's Korwil," he said.