Stadion Kanjuruhan, located in Malang, East Java, Indonesia, is a multi-purpose stadium primarily used for football matches. With a seating capacity of 35,000, it serves as the home ground for Arema FC, one of Indonesia’s most popular football clubs. The stadium is named after the ancient Kanjuruhan Kingdom, which was an 8th-century Hindu kingdom in the region.
History and Construction
The construction of Stadion Kanjuruhan began in 1997 and was completed in 2004, with a total estimated cost of IDR 35 billion (approximately $4.5 million USD). Initially, the stadium featured single-tiered stands, an athletics track, and basic facilities. It officially opened on June 9, 2004, with a trial match between Arema and PSS Sleman, where Arema won 1-0.
Renovations and Improvements
The stadium underwent a major renovation in 2010 to upgrade its lighting system in preparation for the 2011 AFC Champions League. However, the stadium’s history was marred by a tragic disaster in 2022, when a stampede resulted in the deaths of at least 135 people. This incident led to an agreement between the Indonesian government and FIFA to deactivate and rebuild the stadium.
Rebuilding and FIFA Standards
In response to the disaster, the Indonesian government issued orders to demolish and rebuild the stadium to FIFA standards. The redevelopment began in 2023, with an estimated cost of IDR 350 billion, making it the most expensive stadium project in Indonesia. The rebuilding process is expected to be completed by December 31, 2024. The newly renovated stadium is projected to serve for the next 30 to 40 years.
Features of Stadion Kanjuruhan
The revamped Stadion Kanjuruhan will feature:
- Modern seating arrangements for 35,000 spectators
- Improved floodlights and lighting system
- VIP sections, media boxes, and premium seating
- State-of-the-art facilities including training fields, skating tracks, and swimming pools
- Indoor sports arenas, including basketball courts and wall climbing areas
- Healthcare departments, including a mini ICU and prayer rooms
The Stadium’s Impact on Local Sports
Before its deactivation, Stadion Kanjuruhan served as a venue for local football and national competitions, hosting Liga 1 matches and AFC Champions League fixtures. It also became a hub for youth development and community sports activities, with facilities for athletics, swimming, and indoor sports.
The Kanjuruhan Disaster
The 2022 Kanjuruhan Stadium disaster remains a painful chapter in the stadium’s history. The tragic stampede occurred after a match between Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya when fans attempted to exit the stadium. The incident prompted significant changes to the stadium’s security measures and renovation plans, making fan safety a top priority in the rebuild.
Future of Stadion Kanjuruhan
Upon completion, Stadion Kanjuruhan will not only serve as a venue for Arema FC but also host national and international competitions. The renovated facility will ensure better safety standards and world-class amenities, setting a new standard for sports infrastructure in Indonesia.
Conclusion
Stadion Kanjuruhan is a historic stadium in Malang that has undergone significant renovations to meet international standards. With a seating capacity of 35,000, it serves as an important home for Arema FC and a symbol of resilience after the tragic events of 2022. The upcoming renovations will ensure the stadium continues to host top-level football and other sports for years to come.
