Profile of Syamsuddin Batola, Coach of Persewangi Banyuwangi Who Died in a Bus Accident

Kapanlagi.com - The world of Indonesian football is once again shrouded in deep sorrow after losing one of its greatest legends, Syamsuddin Batola. The former star of PSM Makassar passed away in a tragic bus accident on the Probolinggo Toll Road on the morning of Thursday, December 12, 2024. At that time, Syamsuddin, who served as the head coach of Persewangi Banyuwangi, was on his way to a Liga 4 Asprov PSSI East Java event.

This accident not only claimed Syamsuddin's life but also left two other team members seriously injured. Syamsuddin Batola was not just a name; he was an important symbol in the history of Indonesian football, both as a player and a coach.

His illustrious career on the green field has produced many achievements, including leading PSM Makassar to win the Indonesian League Division One championship in the 1999-2000 season.

Now, his journey in the world of football has come to an end, leaving profound sorrow for the entire Indonesian football family. Let us remember the life journey of Syamsuddin Batola, and let’s review the chronology of the accident that shook the national sports world.

1. The Career Journey of Syamsuddin Batola: Elevating PSM Makassar to Become the Champion of the Indonesian League Division One in the 1999-2000 Season

Syamsuddin Batola, born in Maros, South Sulawesi, on July 4, 1967, is a legendary figure in Indonesian football. His career journey began at the PPLP South Sulawesi training center in 1982, and two years later he continued his training at the Ragunan training center in Jakarta.

At a young age, he already achieved remarkable success by being part of the Indonesian student team that won the 1984 Asian Cup in New Delhi.

As a tough central defender, Syamsuddin made his mark in major clubs such as Pelita Jaya, PKT Bontang, and PSM Makassar, where he reached the peak of his career by leading PSM to win the Indonesian League title in the 1999-2000 season.

After retiring, he continued to contribute by taking on roles as a coach, including serving as the Technical Director of the PSM Academy and head coach of Persewangi Banyuwangi.

His dedication and commitment to nurturing young talent have made him a role model for the next generation of footballers in the country.

2. Moments of the Persewangi Banyuwangi Bus Accident: Vehicle Overturned After Driver Allegedly Fell Asleep

A horrific accident struck the Pasuruan-Probolinggo toll road on Thursday morning around 05:30 WIB, when a minibus carrying the Persewangi Banyuwangi group lost control, allegedly due to the driver falling asleep.

In this tragic incident, the minibus collided with a bus traveling in front of it, causing severe damage and claiming the life of Syamsuddin Batola, who succumbed to his injuries.

Meanwhile, the club's secretary Ari Mustofa and the driver were rushed to the hospital with serious injuries. The group was on their way to the Match Coordination Meeting for Liga 4 Asprov PSSI East Java.

Medical teams and police promptly evacuated the victims and secured the location for further investigation, leaving deep sorrow in the hearts of many.

3. Elevating Local Clubs in the World of Indonesian Football

Syamsuddin, a familiar figure in Indonesian football, is known as a tough leader on the field while representing PSM Makassar. With a high fighting spirit, he successfully led his team to glory in the Indonesian League's First Division.

However, his career journey did not stop there; after retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching and guided various teams, such as Persim Maros, SSB Maros, and the PSM Academy.

His dedication not only carved out achievements but also gave rise to a generation of talented young players who are now mainstays in major clubs across the country.

Known as a firm yet caring coach, Syamsuddin has etched his name as a respected and influential figure in the world of football.

4. The Indonesian Football World Mourns

The passing of Syamsuddin Batola has shaken the football world, triggering waves of condolences from various corners of the community. Renowned clubs such as PSM Makassar and Persewangi Banyuwangi, along with players who have collaborated with him, sincerely expressed their deep sorrow.

Social media has been filled with expressions of loss from fans and colleagues, indicating the significant impact he had.

A figure who contributed not only on the field but also off the field through his dedication and commitment to coaching and nurturing the younger generation will now be remembered forever.

5. Investigation and Follow-Up of the Accident

The police are conducting an in-depth investigation to uncover the cause of the accident that occurred, with initial suspicions pointing to driver fatigue leading to a loss of concentration.

The vehicles involved have been secured as evidence, while the investigative team is analyzing witnesses and CCTV footage to detail the chronology of the incident.

On this occasion, the police also emphasize the importance of monitoring the physical condition of drivers, especially on long journeys, to prevent similar incidents from recurring in the future.

6. What is the main cause of the Persewangi Banyuwangi bus accident?

The tragic accident involving the Persewangi bus in Banyuwangi is suspected to have been caused by a drowsy driver, leading him to lose control and collide with the bus in front of him.

7. Who is Syamsuddin Batola?

Syamsuddin Batola, a legendary figure in Indonesian football, is not only known as a successful former player of PSM Makassar but also as a skilled coach at Persewangi Banyuwangi.

8. What is Syamsuddin Batola's contribution to the world of football?

With his expertise, he successfully led PSM Makassar to win the Indonesian League title, while also being a coach who developed a number of talented young players ready to shine in the national football scene.

(kpl/rmt)