COVID-19 Task Force Supports LIB To Continue League 1 As Long As Obeys Strict Prokes

Rizky Pellu (Bali United) fights for the ball with Risna Ranggalelana (Persik Kediri) in the opening match of Liga 1 2021-2022 (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - The competition operator PT Liga Indonesia Baru (LIB) has received support from the BNPB-COVID-19 Handling Task Force to continue the 2021-2022 Liga 1 season.

Quoted from Antara, Tuesday, August 31, the Head of the BNPB and Head of the COVID-19 Handling Task Force Lt. Gen. Ganip Warsito reminded the league to continue running with strict health protocols.

"We will strongly support the resumption of professional football competitions in Indonesia," said Ganip.

The statement was made by Ganip when met by PSSI Deputy General Chair Iwan Budianto, PSSI Secretary General Yunus Nusi and LIB President Director Akhmad Hadian Lukita at the BNPB Office, Monday afternoon.

On that occasion, PSSI and LIB expressed their ability to always carry out the health procedures that have been running in the first three matches of Liga 1 2021-2022.

Several protocols were implemented, such as the PCR swab test the day before the match, using the PeduliLindung application and requiring that they have received the vaccine.

The plan is that the first match week of Liga 1 will start on September 3, 2021 at several stadiums in Jabodetabek.

"During the match, we also ensure that the perimeter in the stadium area is sterile, as well as ensuring the availability of medical equipment such as thermoguns and hand sanitizers can be used optimally," said Akhmad Hadian.

Meanwhile, PSSI Deputy General Chairman Iwan Budianto confirmed that all clubs are ready to resume the 2021-2022 Indonesian Liga 1.

"Observing the development of conditions and the spirit of the clubs, we hope to create a competition that is 'fair', qualified, and entertains the Indonesian people in the midst of this pandemic situation," said Iwan.

Liga 1 Indonesia 2021-2022 starts on August 27, 2021 and has completed three matches, namely Bali United versus Persik on Friday, August 27 at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, Persipura versus Persita at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, Saturday and Bhayangkara FC against Persiraja. on Sunday at the Indomilk Sport Center, Tangerang, without any major problems.

The government itself has indeed made the first three matches of the Indonesian Liga 1 2021-2022 an opportunity to see whether the competition organizers, in this case PSSI and LIB, can implement the health protocols according to the agreement or not.