Expert opposes soccer field conversion

Expert opposes soccer field conversion

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

As the Jakarta administration moves forward with plans to convert
a historic soccer field in Menteng, Central Jakarta, some
observers have questioned whether this will help create a
"healthy environment" in the city.

The Jakarta administration plans to convert the soccer field
into a "multipurpose park", which will include green spaces,
playing fields, a jogging track and a futsal field. The plan is
strongly opposed by various parties, including the City Council.

Sociologist Gumilar Rusliwa Somantri said on Friday the
administration should not sacrifice the soccer field to create
more green space in the city.

"A soccer field should remain a soccer field. If they want to
create more green space, they should develop the surrounding
area. Converting (the soccer field) is not the solution," he
said.

He also said the administration should preserve the area
because it was considered a historic site.

The soccer field was laid out in 1910 and used by the
Voetbalbond Indische Omstreken (Indies Football Association).

"I think the administration should evaluate the city's master
plan, which should support the creation of a prosperous and
healthy community. If more sports facilities disappear from the
city, developing a healthy community and becoming the center for
sporting achievement in the country will remain just a dream," he
told The Jakarta Post.

The head of the Public Scholars Association, Kemal Siregar,
said he would support the administration's decision if the new
multipurpose park provided additional sports facilities for
Jakartans.

"I agree with the decision only if the new park offers more
sports activities than soccer. And only if people from all
economic levels are given access to the facility, because the
poor also need exercise," he said.

He cited a survey last year that found Indonesians engaged in
little physical activity because of a lack of sports centers and
the absence of comfortable places to walk or jog.

According to the administration's website, www.dki.go.id, the
city has five large public sports facilities. These are located
in Bahtera and Sunter in North Jakarta, Kuningan and Ragunan in
South Jakarta, and Rawamangun in East Jakarta.

"This is not enough considering the city has a population of
over 10 million. Plus, some people who live in the same area as
these facilities still cannot reach them. For example, people who
live in Condet should go to Rawamangun to enjoy the facility. But
even though they are both in East Jakarta it is still too far
away," Kemal said.

He said there would be negative consequences if the city
eliminated its few sports facilities.

"The administration can destroy a soccer field and turn it
into whatever it wants, but more sports facilities should be
built to compensate for the loss. Also, public facilities such as
comfortable sidewalks should be provided because walking can also
keep people healthy," he said. (006)