FAM to review spectator SOP after Malang tragedy

FAM to review spectator SOP after Malang tragedy

At least 174 people have been reported killed with about 180 others injured.

Arema fans offered prayers for the victims outside the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang today. (AP pic)
KUALA LUMPUR:
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) will take precautionary measures by tightening entry control into stadiums following a crowd stampede during a riot in Indonesia yesterday.

FAM secretary-general Azman Rahman said although Malaysia have good security control in stadiums, appropriate measures need to be reviewed to prevent the incident at the Kanjuruhan Stadium in East Jawa’s Malang from happening here.

In addition, he said FAM will also review all standard operating procedures (SOPs) on the entry of supporters into stadiums.

“Of course, we at the FA are always cautious, and I have faith in the security committee under Hazani Ghazali,” he said.

According to East Jawa police, the incident occurred when Arema FC fans invaded the pitch after their team lost 3-2 to Persebaya Surabaya.

At least 174 people have been reported killed with about 180 others injured.

Azman said the incident in Indonesia should serve as a lesson for Malaysian football fans to display a high spirit of sportsmanship and learn to accept defeat.

FAM expressed their condolences to the families of those who died in the tragedy.

Meanwhile, Asian Football Confederation (AFC) president Shaikh Salman Ebrahim Al Khalifa voiced deep shock and sadness over the tragic loss of lives in the incident.

“I am deeply shocked and saddened to hear such tragic news coming out of football-loving Indonesia. On behalf of the AFC and the Asian football family, I send our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims, while expressing our speedy recovery wishes to the fans who have been injured in the incident, and support to the Football Association of Indonesia and the clubs,” he said.

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