PSSI Condemns Violence and Intimidation Following Malut United vs. PSM Makassar Match
Jakarta, Indonesia – The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) has strongly condemned the violent actions of supporters and officials of Malut United following their 3-3 draw against PSM Makassar on Saturday, March 7, 2026. The incident, which took place at Stadion Gelora Kie Raha in Ternate, involved the assault of the match referee and intimidation of journalists.
Incident Details
Following the final whistle, referee Thoriq Alkatiri was physically attacked. A Malut United official reportedly pressured a journalist to delete video footage documenting the intimidation of the referee. CNN Indonesia and Ujungjari.com both reported on these events.
PSSI’s Response
Yunus Nusi, PSSI Secretary General, expressed deep regret over the incident, stating that such behavior is unacceptable at the highest level of Indonesian football. “PSSI really regrets this incident and of course this is an important note for us. We really don’t desire things like this to happen, especially in the I League [Super League],” Nusi said, according to CNN Indonesia. He emphasized the importance of clubs ensuring their members – players, coaches, officials, and supporters – behave responsibly.
Nusi further stated that the PSSI expects this to be the last such incident and urged clubs to address the issue, particularly concerning the alleged involvement of officials. He stressed that no fatal mistakes were made during the match itself, but the surrounding actions were unacceptable.
Disciplinary Action
The PSSI has handed the matter over to its Disciplinary Committee (Komite Disiplin) for further investigation and appropriate sanctions. The committee will determine the consequences for those involved in the violence and intimidation. Ujungjari.com reported that PSSI will accept and enforce the committee’s decision.
Intimidation of Journalists
The incident also involved intimidation of journalists covering the match. An official from Malut United allegedly pressured a Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) Ternate reporter, Irwan, to delete video footage of the post-match events. Tragen.co.id highlighted the condemnation from PSSI Pers, the Indonesian football journalists organization, which emphasized the crucial role of journalists in ensuring transparency and objective reporting.
Looking Ahead
The PSSI is committed to protecting the integrity of the I-League and ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all participants. The Disciplinary Committee’s actions will be closely watched as a signal of the PSSI’s resolve to address violence and intimidation within Indonesian football.