Jakarta, Indonesia – The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has strongly condemned the unacceptable behavior of supporters and officials associated with Malut United following their 3-3 draw with PSM Makassar on Saturday, March 7th. The match, played at Stadion Kie Raha, was marred by violence, including an assault on the referee, and intimidation directed towards journalists.
The incident marks a troubling return of unrest to Indonesia’s Super League. Following the final whistle, referee Thoriq Alkatiri was physically attacked. Adding to the severity of the situation, a Malut United official reportedly coerced a journalist into deleting video footage documenting the intimidation of the match official. This confluence of events has prompted swift reaction from the PSSI.
“PSSI deeply regrets these incidents, and This proves certainly a significant note for us,” stated PSSI Secretary General Yunus Nusi in a recorded statement. “We absolutely do not want to see things like this happen, especially in the Super League. Clubs at this level should no longer be experiencing these kinds of issues.”
Nusi emphasized the seriousness of the offenses, specifically highlighting the attack on the referee and the interference with media representatives. “It is crucial for us, whether it’s the assault on the referee or the actions towards the media. We hope What we have is the last time such incidents occur, and we urge all clubs, particularly those with officials implicated, to act responsibly. We hope that whatever happens, there were no fatal errors made,” he added.
The PSSI has now handed the matter over to its Disciplinary Committee for further investigation and appropriate action. The committee will review the events at Stadion Kie Raha and determine the necessary sanctions. This isn’t simply about punishing those directly involved, but sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated in Indonesian football.
“We need to understand why these things happen and why they preserve recurring,” Nusi explained. “This will be a key consideration for the disciplinary committee as they reach a decision. PSSI is handing everything over to the committee, and whatever decision they make, all parties must accept it.”
Nusi similarly stressed the importance of clubs proactively communicating a message of restraint and respect to their supporters, and members. “Once again, we hope that these kinds of things don’t happen again, as it’s also not good for the atmosphere of Indonesian football and our Super League competition, which we must protect together.”
He continued, “To prevent these actions, management must firmly convey to coaches, assistant officials, players, and especially supporters, the importance of remaining calm and wise in dealing with situations like these.”
The incident comes at a sensitive time for Indonesian football, which has been working to improve its image and attract greater investment. Violence and intimidation undermine these efforts and risk damaging the league’s reputation. The PSSI’s swift response is a clear indication of its commitment to addressing these issues head-on.
The match itself, a 3-3 draw, was a dramatic affair, with both teams trading goals throughout the contest. PSM Makassar salvaged a point with a late equalizer, avoiding a defeat on the road. But, the on-field drama was overshadowed by the unacceptable events that followed the final whistle. Sofascore provided live coverage of the match.
The PSSI’s response is being echoed by press organizations. Both the Indonesian Press Council (PWI) and PSSI have condemned the alleged intimidation of journalists during the match, according to OneFootball.
The Disciplinary Committee’s investigation is expected to be completed swiftly, with sanctions likely to include fines, suspensions, and potentially even bans for those found responsible. The outcome of this investigation will be closely watched by stakeholders across Indonesian football, as it sets a precedent for how similar incidents will be handled in the future.
The next match for PSM Makassar is scheduled for [Date to be confirmed], while Malut United will face [Opponent to be confirmed]. The PSSI will be hoping that these upcoming fixtures will be played in a safe and respectful environment, free from the violence and intimidation that marred the recent encounter.
Archysport will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as they develop into available. What are your thoughts on the PSSI’s response? Share your opinions in the comments below.
