Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying match between Indonesia and China on Thursday, 5 May 2025, the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has called on fans to refrain from visiting the team’s hotel to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
The team manager, Sumardji, issued the request following the squad’s arrival in Jakarta on Sunday evening.
He explained that heightened precautions are in place at the players’ accommodation, the Fairmont Hotel, in light of recent increases in COVID-19 cases in several Southeast Asian countries.
“We also have to keep up with developments. We also have to follow developments in neighbouring countries. I got information that there are also neighbouring countries where the COVID-19 situation is also somewhat increasing,” said Sumardji, as quoted by Antara.
@bolaskorcom Manajer Timnas Indonesia, Sumardji meminta suporter tidak menyambangi hotel pemain demi mewaspadai potensi penularan Covid-19 yang dikabarkan mulai meningkat. Setuju, Sob? #bolaskorcom #timnasindonesia #covid19 #sumardji ♬ original sound – BolaSkor.com
Fans were urged to show support without direct interaction
Sumardji emphasised that strict health protocols have been implemented at the team’s hotel to ensure the players remain in optimal condition ahead of the important fixture.
“It’s quite worrying, that’s why we at Fairmont really take care of security, safety, especially how the players are really healthy,” he added.
Acknowledging the strong enthusiasm among Garuda supporters, Sumardji appealed for understanding and discipline.
“Once again we hope that the supporters will also understand, want to understand the situation so that they support, support, there is no need to flock to Fairmont here to give greetings and so on to the players.”
“Simply supported with prayer. When later on the 5th, please come to GBK. Of course, I really hope that the supporters will not be like yesterday. The euphoria is excessive, waiting until the morning at the hotel is certainly not good for the good of this team, especially the players.”
Government urges vigilance as cases rise in Southeast Asia
The Ministry of Health issued a Circular Letter on 23 May 2025 urging vigilance against the spread of COVID-19 following a rise in cases across Southeast Asia.
According to Kompas.com, Thailand reported over 16,600 new infections and six deaths between 4–10 May. Singapore recorded a spike to 14,200 cases in the week of 27 April–3 May, compared to 11,100 the week prior. Malaysia, meanwhile, recorded 11,727 total cases up to 10 May.
In Indonesia, the Ministry of Health detected seven new COVID-19 cases between 25–31 May. The positivity rate for the same period stood at 2.05%, according to Ministry spokesperson Widyawati. She added that there have been no recorded deaths from COVID-19 in Indonesia in 2025.
“The number of cases reported in M22 (25–31 May) is seven cases,” Widyawati confirmed, as quoted by Detiknews.
When asked whether any deaths had been recorded this year, she replied, “No.”
