Kanjuruhan Stadium Renovation: Ready for Arema’s Return!

Kanjuruhan Stadium Reopens After Renovation,offering Hope for arema FC and a Nation

Jakarta – The Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang,Indonesia,has officially reopened its doors following extensive renovations,sparking renewed hope for Arema FC and a community still healing from a tragic past. The stadium’s revitalization, completed to meet stringent FIFA standards, marks a notable step forward after a period of closure prompted by the devastating events of October 1, 2022.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the renovated stadium, along with 16 others across the nation, on Monday, March 17, 2025.this event signals a commitment to revitalizing Indonesian sports infrastructure and fostering a safe habitat for athletes and fans alike. The Kanjuruhan Stadium had been shuttered and devoid of activity for nearly three years in the wake of the tragedy.

A Hub for Football Activities

Malang Regent Sanusi has confirmed that the Kanjuruhan Stadium will be dedicated primarily to soccer activities. This includes the potential return of Arema FC,a team deeply connected to the stadium and its community,who have been unable to play at their home ground as 2022. The prospect of Arema FC’s return carries significant emotional weight for fans eager to see their team back on familiar turf. This revitalized stadium is not just a building; it’s a symbol of resilience and the enduring spirit of the community. Consider the role that stadiums like Fenway Park in Boston or Lambeau Field in Green Bay play in their respective communities; Kanjuruhan holds a similar, if not even more poignant, importance.

“Starting today Kanjuruhan Stadium It has been inaugurated by the President, Prabowo Subianto so that it can be officially used for sports activities, especially football,”

– Malang Regent Sanusi

Sanusi further stated, hinting at ongoing discussions regarding Arema FC’s potential return: Already (there is a management request Arema fc). For (discussion), just wait for the schedule.

Renovation details and FIFA Standards

The extensive renovation project, which spanned from September 4, 2023, to December 31, 2024, was undertaken to bring the Kanjuruhan Stadium up to FIFA standards. This included significant structural reinforcements, extensive renovations of stadium buildings and landscaping, upgrades to the athletic tracks and soccer field itself, and improvements to the Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems.

Section	Capacity
Western Tribune (VVIP)	108 seats
Western Tribune (VIP)	2,465 seats
Media Seats	134 seats
Disabled Seats	16 seats
Eastern Tribune	4,352 seats
Northern Tribune	7,264 seats
Southern Tribune	7,264 seats
Total Capacity	21,603 seats

The stadium’s total capacity is 21,603 seats,encompassing various sections,including the Western tribune (VIP seating),general public stands in the East,North,and South Tribunes,dedicated seating for media,and accessible seating for disabled fans. The renovations addressed not only structural integrity but also aimed to enhance the overall fan experience.

A Memorial to Remember

Beyond the physical upgrades, the renovated Kanjuruhan Stadium incorporates a poignant element: memorabilia rooms dedicated to commemorating the 135 lives lost in the tragic events of October 1, 2022. This space serves as a place of remembrance and reflection, ensuring that the victims are never forgotten.

Ensuring a Safe and Fan-Friendly Environment

Regent Sanusi emphasized the importance of maintaining a sterile environment within the stadium,aligning with FIFA regulations that prohibit vendors from operating inside the grounds. The stadium area must be sterile because FIFA standards should not be sold. Later (where the trader) we will arrange outside by making a place to use the budget from the local government, Sanusi explained. This decision aims to create a safer and more organized environment for fans, with alternative arrangements being made to accommodate local vendors outside the stadium perimeter, funded by the local government.

Addressing Counterarguments and Ensuring Fan Safety

Some may argue that excluding vendors from the stadium negatively impacts local businesses and the overall fan experience. However, the focus on FIFA standards and safety protocols is paramount. Similar debates often arise in the U.S. concerning stadium security and vendor regulations at major sporting events like the Super Bowl or World Series. The balance between creating a vibrant atmosphere and ensuring the safety and security of attendees is a constant challenge for stadium management worldwide.

To mitigate potential negative impacts, the local government’s commitment to providing alternative spaces for vendors outside the stadium is crucial.This approach ensures that local businesses can still benefit from stadium events while maintaining the integrity of FIFA’s safety standards. This approach mirrors strategies used in numerous U.S. stadiums to manage vendor access and maintain a secure environment.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Kanjuruhan Stadium and arema FC

The reopening of Kanjuruhan Stadium represents far more than just the completion of a renovation project. It symbolizes a community’s resilience,a commitment to safety,and a renewed hope for the future. The potential return of Arema FC to their home ground adds another layer of significance, offering a chance for healing and a return to normalcy for fans who have endured immense hardship.

As Kanjuruhan Stadium prepares to welcome back players and fans, its legacy will forever be intertwined with both the joy of the game and the solemn remembrance of those who were lost. The stadium stands as a testament to the enduring power of sports to unite communities and inspire hope, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

What design elements were incorporated into Kanjuruhan Stadium to ensure accessibility for disabled fans?

Interview: Architect Discusses Kanjuruhan Stadium’s Reopening and FIFA Standards

Introduction

Archyde: Welcome, Ms. Rina Wijaya, lead architect on the Kanjuruhan Stadium renovation project. Thank you for joining us today.

Rina Wijaya: Thank you for having me.

Meeting FIFA Standards at Kanjuruhan Stadium

Archyde: Can you elaborate on what was required to bring Kanjuruhan Stadium up to FIFA standards? The article mentions significant work.

Rina Wijaya: Absolutely. The core of the renovation focused on safety and structural integrity. We reinforced the existing structure, upgraded all MEP systems, and of course, the playing surface itself. Everything from the seating to the drainage systems was scrutinized to meet the exacting FIFA requirements. There were also important upgrades to the facilities for media, and accessibility for disabled fans including 16 dedicated seats.

A Focus on Safety and the Fan Experience

Archyde: The article highlights the importance of safety. What specific measures were taken to enhance the fan experience while adhering to those FIFA standards?

Rina Wijaya: Primarily, we created distinct zones within the stadium to help ensure a safe and enjoyable environment. The seating layout, the flow of pedestrian traffic; and dedicated entrances and exits were all carefully considered. While stadium vendors are limited to the area outside,this was driven by safety,and local authorities are investing in alternative options for vendors to thrive in the surrounding areas.

Memorial and Community Impact

Archyde: The inclusion of a memorial space is very poignant. Could you discuss the importance of that aspect of the project?

Rina Wijaya: this was a deeply important element of the project. It’s a space for remembrance and reflection.We worked closely with community representatives to ensure the design was respectful and conducive to healing. The stadium, as a whole, is a symbol of the community’s resilience.

The Return of Arema FC and the Future

Archyde: With the renovations complete, Arema FC perhaps returning to their home ground is big news. How do you see the stadium’s role in the future of football in Malang?

Rina Wijaya: this stadium is more than just a sports venue; it’s a hub of community. The return of Arema FC will be a crucial step in restoring normalcy and providing a sense of hope and healing. It’s designed and built to be a place where people can come together, celebrate the sport, and support their team for years to come.

Thought-Provoking Question

Archyde: The project’s balance of safety, community needs, and FIFA regulations is complex. What aspect of the project do you believe the stadium’s legacy will be moast remembered for and why?

Rina Wijaya: I think the legacy will be the way the community has reclaimed this space, transforming a place of tragedy into a place of hope. The stadium will not just be a place for football, but a symbol of the city’s strength and unity.

archyde: Ms. Wijaya, thank you so much for yoru insights. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.

Rina Wijaya: Thank you for having me.