Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has received official security assurances from the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) for the safety of the Malaysia U23 national team during the upcoming AFF U-23 Championship 2025, set to take place in Jakarta and Bekasi from July 15–29.
FAM Secretary General Noor Azman Rahman confirmed that security concerns were one of the key matters discussed in preparation for the tournament, particularly as both Malaysia and Indonesia have been drawn into the same Group A.
“FAM has held thorough discussions with PSSI to ensure the tournament proceeds smoothly, especially since we are in the same group,” Noor Azman told Berita Harian. “Our team has also received security guarantees during their time in Indonesia.”
Tensions between fans have previously marred matches between the two rivals, especially during fixtures in Jakarta. The most notable incident occurred in September 2019, when Malaysia defeated Indonesia 3-2 in a 2022 World Cup Qualifier at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. Malaysian fans were reportedly held back in the stadium for safety reasons, and players had to exit the venue under police escort in an armored vehicle.
With Malaysia and Indonesia U-23 set to clash once again—this time on July 21 in the final group match at Gelora Bung Karno—anticipation is already building for what is expected to be a fiery showdown that could decide the Group A winner.
The group also includes Brunei Darussalam and the Philippines, but all eyes will be on the Indonesia vs Malaysia encounter, a fixture historically rich with rivalry and intensity.
Indonesia U-23, coached by Gerald Vanenburg, have been handed the target of winning the tournament by the PSSI, adding further pressure to deliver in front of their home crowd.
With security arrangements now in place and both sides preparing for battle, the stage is set for a high-stakes, high-drama AFF U-23 Championship in the heart of Southeast Asia.
Credit Photo : Twitter/@RadioElshinta
