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)