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Strategic Partnership Signing Between Japan and Indonesia's Futsal Federations

The Japan Futsal Top League, based in Bunkyo City, Tokyo, has officially signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Indonesian Futsal Federation, marking the first collaboration between these two nations. This event is a significant step towards fulfilling the vision of Chairman Daisuke Matsui, which aims to enhance global engagement through futsal initiatives.

The partnership was finalized on May 22, 2025, and aligns with Indonesia's ambition in futsal, as the country has shown considerable growth in the sport. According to the latest FIFA futsal rankings, Indonesia's men's team is currently among the top four in Asia, while the women's team ranks fifth. This growth echoes Japan's own development in futsal and reflects a shared passion for the sport.

Futsal exchanges between Japan and Indonesia date back to the AFC Futsal Championship held in Jakarta in 2002. Since then, the two nations have maintained a cooperative relationship, highlighted by various events, including a friendly match between the Indonesian national team and Japan’s first futsal club, Bardral Urayasu, in 2014. Between 2018 to 2022, Kensuke Takahashi, the current coach of the Japanese national futsal team, served as the general manager for all three categories of the Indonesian national team, further strengthening ties.

Numerous players have also bridged the two countries. Notable names include Kaoru Morioka from Pescadola Machida and Tomoaki Watanabe, formerly of Tachikawa/Fuchu Athletic FC, who have both played in Indonesia's league. Currently, one coach and two players from Japan's F League are playing successfully in the Indonesian league, reflecting ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange in futsal.

The primary goals of this latest partnership include:

• - Building a new generation of relationships between Japan and Indonesia through futsal, contributing to international peace.
• - Pooling the strengths and values of both futsal leagues to foster the growth of futsal in Asia.

Michael Sianipar, the President of the Indonesian Futsal Federation, expressed his honor in attending the signing ceremony. He congratulated the Japanese women's national team on their recent victory in the AFC Women's Asian Cup and shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating his belief in Indonesia's vast potential in futsal. He emphasized the importance of learning from Japan’s professional standards, envisioning a future filled with opportunities for exchanges between coaches and players. Sianipar also highlighted the potential for Indonesian clubs to compete in inter-league tournaments and looked forward to welcoming Japan as a host for the AFC Futsal Asian Cup in 2026.

Chairman Matsui reciprocated the sentiments, noting his past experiences playing football in Vietnam, where he witnessed the vibrant atmosphere of futsal in Southeast Asia. He expressed his desire to use futsal as a tool for cultural exchange, hoping to strengthen connections and enhance regional revitalization through this partnership. Matsui emphasized the importance of fostering exchanges between clubs and regions, anticipating that mutual efforts would invigorate futsal culture in both nations.

Furthermore, the revitalization of league cup competitions includes negotiations for future international club invitations, aiming for a more strategic approach in interactions with foreign teams. Matsui recognized Indonesia’s vital role as a partner and expressed excitement about broadening the reach of futsal in Asia together.

In conclusion, this strategic partnership between Japan and Indonesia's futsal federations is expected to blossom into a significant collaboration that benefits both nations. As they work together, the shared vision of promoting futsal and enhancing international relations will serve as a catalyst for growth, making Asian futsal more competitive globally.