Persipura's Mission Goes Beyond Promotion, Emphasising Sustainability and Professionalism
Persipura Jayapura’s manager Owen Rahadiyan has set his sights on a mission that transcends merely securing promotion back to the Super League: building a sustainable, professionally-managed football club that remains rooted in grassroots support.
Persipura Jayapura has been absent from the top tier of Indonesian football since the 2021-2022 season. However, the club has recently staged a resurgence and currently occupies second place in the Eastern Group of the Pegadaian Championship with eight matches remaining.
Promotion is naturally the immediate target for Mutiara Hitam. However, Rahadiyan acknowledges that Persipura’s ambitions extend beyond returning to the elite division. The club has developed a comprehensive vision and strategic plan for the next five to ten years.
“Before I even arrived, I had conversations with supporters,” Rahadiyan explained during an appearance on Sporty on Kompas.com’s Newsroom discussion programme on Thursday, 25 February 2026.
“I asked supporters the same question: if we were promoted to the Super League, what would be your plan? What are your expectations for the club? I need to understand this too.”
“Sometimes supporters tell me, ‘Sir, I want us in the Super League next season and winning the championship immediately’,” he continued.
“I tell them it’s impossible. If that’s what you want, I’m not the right person for you.”
“From the outset, since I joined Persipura, I’ve consistently stated that my objective here is to build an ecosystem and ensure sustainability.”
“It’s pointless if I only take the club into the Super League, but if the management system isn’t properly established and professional standards aren’t implemented, then what’s the value? We need financial stability and a proper revenue structure.”
He articulated his definition of success for himself and the club.
“Success, for me, would be if I depart knowing that the systems I’ve built will allow the club to function independently,” he said.
“I’ve already told supporters that my plan aligns with this season’s theme, ‘One Heart, One Goal’. The important thing is reaching our objectives as quickly as possible this season.”
“There’s significant talent in Papua that simply lacks opportunity and a platform to showcase their abilities. That’s what I intend to do—actively search for talent to bring into the club for the upcoming seasons.”