Malanginspirasi.com – The 32nd matchweek of the 2024/2025 BRI Liga 1 will witness a historic encounter as Arema FC hosts Persik Kediri at the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang Regency (Kabupaten) on Sunday, May 11, 2025. This match is more than just a game. It marks an emotional milestone—the return of Arema FC to their home stadium, Kanjuruhan, following the tragic events of October 1, 2022.
Since the tragedy, Arema FC has been forced to relocate, playing home games at Stadion PTIK in Jakarta (2022/2023), Stadion I Wayan Dipta in Bali (2023/2024), and Stadion Soepriadi in Blitar (2024/2025).
Now, after a thorough renovation and risk assessment, Kanjuruhan Stadium is once again ready to host Arema FC.
Charity Match
Prior to the official match, Arema FC held a charity game on Thursday, May 8, 2025, against Arema All Stars, winning 7-0. This served as a trial run for the match organizers.
Arema FC coach, Ze Gomes, expressed his enthusiasm for the team’s return, noting the stadium’s significance.
“It’s a special feeling to be back here. This is not just about football. It’s also about remembering and supporting the families of the victims,” he said.
Former captain Johan Alfarizi echoed this sentiment. Highlighting the match as a reunion with former players like Ahmad Bustomi and Arif Suyono.
“We’ve been away for almost three years. Thankfully, through everyone’s hard work, we’re back. Our prayers remain with the victims and their families,” he remarked.
The renovated Kanjuruhan Stadium boasts significant improvements, particularly in the quality of the playing field.
Alfarizi, who played 45 minutes in the charity match, confirmed the improved field conditions. The stadium now features a capacity of 21,000 with single-seat configurations.
However, for the match against Persik Kediri, only 10,000 tickets were made available to ensure safety. Tickets were sold digitally through the Arema Utas application. Exclusively for verified members, with spectators required to present their e-tickets and ID cards upon entry.
Tight Security Measures for the Derby Jatim
Due to the high-profile nature of this East Java derby, security will be significantly enhanced.
Approximately 2,000 personnel from the Malang Police, East Java Regional Police, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP), and medical teams will be deployed.
Malang Police Chief AKBP Danang Setiyo stated that potential security risks have been identified and various security scenarios have been prepared for both inside and outside the stadium.
The security measures will be divided into four rings, with stewards managing ring 1 and police officers securing rings 2, 3, and 4.
Security forces will refrain from entering ring 1 in accordance with modern football safety standards.
