Indonesia vs. Malaysia

George Orwell: serious sport … is war minus the shooting.

It has never been like this, we look forward to the soccer final with great expectation. If you see our TV, the Indonesia's team goals footage is aired repeatedly. AFF Cup is nothing more than regional competition which is less prestigious than Asian Cup not to mention World Cup. However if you have no achievement for a long time and once you get it again, then it will be mesmerizing occurrence.

God has destined we meet Malaysia in the AFF Cup's final. We will fight against our "arch-enemy". The hatred instilled in some Indonesians need to be channeled through this game. The anger should be released in dignity.

Yes it is not a game anymore. It becomes war to revive our nation's pride. We always feel Malaysians look us down due to their standard of life are better than us now.

Given the fact in 60s and 70s, then Indonesia was better than Malaysia in every sector. Indonesia sent teachers to Malaysia. Pertamina have provided money for the government while Petronas was still established from scratch.

Now things change. We, as a nation, are seen as a loser instead of a winner in every sector. Our government cannot give us enough jobs so that our countrymen/women must work there in low skilled job. Petronas outdoes Pertamina. We send our students to Malaysia. Sentul circuit of Indonesia, established in 1993 and it gives us almost nothing whereas Sepang circuit of Malaysia constructed in 1999 becomes the source of pride by holding Formula One racing. In short, Malaysia has beaten Indonesia for many times.

In terms of economy, infrastructure, tourism there will be no quick win for Indonesia against Malaysia. It will take years to beat them. And for those sectors it seems there is no light at the end of the tunnel.

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The final schedule is very perfect for us (if we win). If we can secure the game in Bukit Jalil, Malaysia and we ensure the winning in Senayan, Indonesia, then the winning party will be held in our country.

Winning the games against Malaysia will give us catharsis. We will be released at least for a while. We will have the feeling of better-than-Malaysia. Moreover it will be a momentum for Indonesia to be better, not only in sport but other sectors as well.

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