ID EN

Sumatra Calls: Charity Football Match for Humanity

Sunday, 4 January 2026 | 15:37

Author: Rojes Saragih

Jakarta - Indonesian football figures collaborated to enliven the charity match "Football Match for Sumatra," held at Madya Stadium, Jakarta, on December 19, 2025. This initiative was jointly spearheaded by the Indonesian Professional Footballers Association (APPI) and I.League, aiming to raise aid for landslide disaster victims in Sumatra.

The event successfully collected Rp265 million in funds, which will be channeled to support the recovery of affected communities on Sumatra Island. The 2x30-minute match involved various national football figures, from active players and legends to club representatives, unfolding in an atmosphere of warmth and sporting spirit.

In this goal-filled match, the Blue Team (featuring Makan Konaté among others) defeated the Yellow Team (which included Greg Nwokolo and others) with a final score of 6-5, producing eleven goals throughout the game.

Beyond the match, fundraising also occurred through an exclusive auction of nine jerseys donated by participants. The entire series of activities successfully reached the fundraising target of Rp265 million.

I.League Director Ferry Paulus stated this event demonstrated a commitment to unity: "This match marks the beginning of a long-term pledge by the Indonesian Football family. I.League and stakeholders will continue initiating charity actions as proof of our solidarity."

Meanwhile, APPI CEO Hardika Aji emphasized the social dimension of Sports: "This action proves football has the power to nurture care and togetherness, beyond just on-field competition," said Aji, adding that fundraising spanned approximately one week.

Former Indonesian National Team Player Ramdani Lestaluhu, who donated a jersey for auction, expressed hope: "I share the concern over the Sumatra landslide disaster. May this football philanthropy pathway ease our affected brothers' and sisters' burdens."

The event stands as tangible proof of positive synergy among domestic football stakeholders, collectively transforming Sports spirit into impactful social action.