MEMBER of the Executive Committee (Exco) and Spokesperson for the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Arya Sinulingga stated that the public responded positively to the policy of naturalizing national team players (Timnas). According to him, this is because PSSI is building a conducive ecosystem for diaspora players. Arya commented on the findings of a national survey conducted by Indonesian Political Indicators regarding ‘Public Attitudes towards the National Team Player Naturalization Policy’.
In the survey conducted 10-15 October, Founder and Main Researcher of Indonesian Political Indicators, Burhanuddin Muhtadi, said that the majority of respondents agreed with the naturalization policy implemented by the General Chair of PSSI, Erick Thohir.
As many as 71.5 percent of the 1,200 respondents spread across 38 provinces stated that they agreed and strongly agreed with Erick’s steps to naturalize a number of players of descent from various countries to defend the national team.
Arya explained the various policies implemented by the PSSI Chairman in transforming Indonesian football and had an impact on the national team’s soaring achievements at the Asian level. Arya considered it to be an attraction for diaspora players to defend the Red and White.
“When Mr. Erick led PSSI, the National Team achievement program was the initial priority, so optimal support was directed there. Including PSSI adding naturalized players such as Jay Idzes, Nathan Tjoe A On,” said Arya in his statement, Wednesday (6/11).
“As a result, the national team’s achievements have soared. The FIFA ranking has risen. The public’s response has been good because they have become idols. The players are also proud to defend the Red and White. Something they have been pursuing all this time as football players, namely defending the National Team. Well, this ecosystem is now what is attracting the players. “Diaspora players. Erick and PSSI’s efforts to build this diaspora ecosystem, in my opinion, can be imitated by other sectors,” added Arya.
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**Interview with Arya Sinulingga, PSSI Spokesperson**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Arya. The recent approval of Kevin Diks’ naturalization has generated quite a buzz. Can you share your thoughts on this development?
**Arya Sinulingga:** Thank you for having me. We’re thrilled about Kevin Diks’ naturalization. It’s a significant step for Indonesian football as we aim to enhance the quality of our national team with talented players from the diaspora.
**Interviewer:** There seems to be a positive public response to the naturalization policy. What can you tell us about the recent survey conducted by Indonesian Political Indicators?
**Arya Sinulingga:** Yes, the survey results were encouraging. Conducted between October 10-15, it showed that the majority of the public supports the naturalization of national team players. This reflects a growing acceptance and understanding of the benefits that diaspora players can bring to our football ecosystem.
**Interviewer:** What do you think are the main reasons behind this supportive attitude from the public?
**Arya Sinulingga:** I believe the public sees the potential for improved performance on the field. We’re building a more conducive environment for these players, and the community recognizes that having skilled athletes like Diks can elevate our national team’s competitiveness.
**Interviewer:** Moving forward, how does PSSI plan to continue fostering this positive sentiment and ecosystem for naturalized players?
**Arya Sinulingga:** Our focus is on creating a supportive environment that not only welcomes naturalized players but also integrates them with local talent. This involves robust training programs and community outreach to ensure we’re developing a cohesive team that reflects the spirit of Indonesian football.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Arya. It sounds like an exciting time for Indonesian football.
**Arya Sinulingga:** Thank you! We’re optimistic about the future and appreciate the support from football fans across the country.