Supporters groups, similar in nature to the hooligan gangs that sparked violence at English Premier League games, have a strong culture of supporting their team and participating in long-running feuds with other clubs. They also can give young men a sense of belonging. Increasingly however, the violence seems to be driven by hooligans enjoying hooliganism. “This is not about football anymore,” said local commentator Dex Glenniza. “They are just criminals.” Still, the mass popularity of football in Indonesia has attracted politicians or those with political ambitions to particular teams. For instance, Edy Rahmayadi, PSSI chairman since 2016, was inaugurated as North Sumatra governor in September this year. Over the years, other politicians have helped run the game.
John Duerden, 'Hooliganism is killing Indonesia’s beautiful game', Asia Times
