Menpora Regarding President Jokowi's Permit And His Intention To Become PSSI Chairman

JAKARTA - Surprises were presented on the 2023-2027 PSSI Executive Committee candidate exchange. The Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) Zainudin Amali entered the contest.

The Menpora registers as a candidate for vice chairman of PSSI. He will compete with 19 other names who are also eyeing the seat.

Many are highlighting Zainudin Amali's steps considering he is still a minister to President Joko Widodo (Jokowi). In this regard, the man from Gorontalo admitted that he had received the blessing of the president.

"I asked for permission and it was allowed," said the Menpora to journalists, Tuesday, January 17.

Zainudin admitted that his decision to nominate himself as the PSSI Deputy Chairman had been carefully considered. He also had lengthy discussions with various stakeholders in the aim of advancing Indonesian football.

He explained that serious and special handling was needed so that the management of Indonesian football would be better and would lead to a strong national team.

Zainudin explained, the President of FIFA also encouraged Indonesian football to be more advanced considering the population of 277 million people. The Menpora explained the results of a survey which revealed that at least 73 percent of the public liked football and wanted Indonesian football to progress.

"I thought, discussing it, this must be taken care of properly, and it seems I have to take care of it," said Zainudin, as reported by Antara.

Zainudin did not think too far into the scenario if he was elected as the PSSI Deputy Chairman and his position as Menpora. He said he would consider further matters when the PSSI KLB had been completed and officially revealed the names of the General Chairperson and Deputy General Chairperson of PSSI.

"We will consider it, I haven't elected yet. If elected I will consider again," he said.