Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Footballers Emil Audero Mulyadi, Joey Mathijs Pelupessy, and Dean Ruben James have officially acquired Indonesian citizenship after taking their oath in Rome, Italy, on Monday (10/3/2025).

Secretary-General of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, Nico Afinta, said that this naturalization reflects Indonesia’s commitment to developing national sports. “

This moment is not just about citizenship status but also about realizing a greater vision for Indonesia’s progress,” he said, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The process, regulated under the 2006 Citizenship Law, involved multiple ministries, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI). The naturalization committee assessed the players’ eligibility before securing approval from the House of Representatives (DPR).

Government officials believe the inclusion of these athletes will strengthen Indonesia’s national football team, particularly in upcoming international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup qualifiers and AFC Asian Cup.

Director General of Legal Administration Widodo affirmed continued support for naturalization benefiting national sports, ensuring compliance with citizenship laws while enhancing Indonesia’s global standing in football.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)