Stricter measures to ensure no unruly incidents at Sarawak Stadium, says FAS secretary
NO MORE: Flares and firecrackers are thrown by unruly spectators during the Super League match between Sarawak and Johor, in this September 13, 2012 file photo. — Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING: Football Association of Sarawak (FAS) will be taking stricter measures to ensure that no unruly incidents will occur at the Sarawak Stadium during the new football season.
Its secretary Abdullah Julaihi said yesterday that FAS was fined a total of RM20,000 by Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) for several incidents that happened at the stadium last season.
According to him, the fines were reduced after negotiations between FAS and FAM.
“FAS will tighten controls inside and outside the stadium by deploying the Police, People Volunteer Corps (RELA) and our own security personnel,” he said at a press conference at the stadium.
“We have also agreed with the police that no one is allowed to bring prohibited items into the stadium and those making trouble in the stadium or throwing objects such as firecrackers, flares or bottles will be arrested and brought to the police station for further action.”
He said more plainclothed policemen will also be deployed to monitor the fans and take pictures of those causing trouble.
Abdullah hoped that there will be no more burning of flares and firecrackers in the stadium.
He said Sarawak recorded the highest number of burning flares and firecrackers in the Super League last season.
To avoid brawling incidents, Abdullah said the association will arrange special seating for fans of the visiting team but the association will need to be informed early.
“I hope that with the measures taken by FAS, our fans will improve their conduct and project a good image for state football,” he added.
He said it would be a waste of money to pay fines which could be better used to buy more quality players to strengthen the state squad.
“We spent around RM30,000 to RM40,000 to host each match and I sincerely hope that our fans will understand our situation,” said Abdullah.
Among those present at the press conference were representatives from the Police, RELA, Jabatan Pertahanan Awam Malaysia and the Sarawak State Stadium Board.