Introduction: The Enduring Rooster of the East
PSM Makassar is a monumental institution in Indonesian football. It stands as the oldest football club in Indonesia. Founded on November 2, 1915, the club is a living chronicle of the nation’s history. It also serves as a fierce emblem of regional pride for South Sulawesi.
The club is famously known as the Juku Eja, or “The Red Fish.” This nickname references its all-red kits and the maritime identity of its home city, Makassar. Supporters power the club with an unwavering fighting spirit and the war cry, Ewako!—Fight On!
Context: The Bri Super League
PSM Makassar competes in Bri Super League, the top tier of professional football in Indonesia. The league is a battleground for the nation’s most historic and passionate clubs. To understand the competitive landscape PSM Makassar navigates each season, explore our complete Bri Super League Hub.
The Juku Eja Way: Philosophy and Identity
The identity of PSM Makassar is defined by resilience and a relentless will to win. This philosophy is captured in the local Makassarese war cry Ewako!, a term that embodies the command to “Fight On!” regardless of the odds. The club’s spirit is also reflected in its alternate nickname, Pasukan Ramang, meaning “Ramang’s Troops,” a tribute to its most legendary player.
For over six decades, the club’s spiritual home was the Andi Mattalatta Stadium, known as Mattoangin (Mat-to-ang-in). Following its demolition in 2020, the club entered a nomadic period. It currently uses the Gelora B. J. Habibie Stadium in Parepare (Pa-ray-pa-ray) as its temporary home base.
A Rivalry Forged in History
The long and storied history of PSM Makassar has created fierce rivalries with other giants of Indonesian football.
- vs. Persija Jakarta: This is arguably the club’s most intense modern rivalry. A series of dramatic, high-stakes title deciders have fuelled a volatile relationship between the two clubs.
- The Derby of the Elders (vs. Persebaya Surabaya): A “classic duel” steeped in history and mutual respect. This is a contest between two of the oldest and most successful clubs in the country.
- vs. Persib Bandung: A classic clash of regional powers. Both clubs have distinct footballing philosophies forged over decades of competition in the old Perserikatan league.
Club History: The Golden Era of Pasukan Ramang
The club was founded in 1915 as the Macassaarsche Voetbalbond (MVB) during the Dutch colonial era. Its identity was nationalized during the Japanese occupation when it was compelled to change its name to PSM Makassar.
The post-independence period saw the club’s “Golden Era.” It was led by the transcendent talent of Andi Ramang. This legendary team became the dominant force in the amateur Perserikatan league, winning four national titles between 1957 and 1966. The club won its final Perserikatan title in the 1991-92 season before the professional era began.
The Modern Era: A Championship Return
PSM Makassar captured its first professional national league title in the 1999-2000 Liga Indonesia season. This victory established the club as a major force in the new era.
In a remarkable modern achievement, the club won the 2022-23 BRI Liga 1 championship. The victory came a full 23 years after its last professional crown. This triumph cemented its status as an enduring giant of Indonesian football against all odds.
PSM Makassar Major Honours
- Liga 1 / Liga Indonesia (Professional League)
- Champions (2): 1999–2000, 2022–23
- Perserikatan (Amateur League)
- Champions (5): 1956–57, 1957–59, 1964–65, 1965–66, 1991–92
- Piala Indonesia (Domestic Cup)
- Champions (1): 2018–19
(Data sourced from the official Liga Indonesia Baru records and RSSSF archives).
Key Players & Club Legends
The club’s history is illuminated by iconic players who have embodied the spirit of the Pasukan Ramang.
Andi Ramang: The Foundational Myth
The most iconic player in the club’s history. Andi Ramang was a striker of world-class ability. He was the driving force behind the club’s Golden Era in the 1950s and 60s.
Suardi Arlan: The Prolific Partner
A vital and prolific attacking midfielder. Suardi Arlan formed a formidable trio with Andi Ramang. He was the top scorer during the victorious 1957-1959 season.
Bima Sakti: The Midfield General
A legendary figure for the Indonesian National Team. Bima Saktiwas the midfield general of the PSM side that won the 1999-2000 professional league title.
Wiljan Pluim: The Modern Icon
A modern-day icon from the Netherlands. The long-serving captain, Wiljan Pluim, led the team to a miraculous Liga 1 title in the 2022-23 season. He also earned the league’s Best Player award for his efforts.
Conclusion: The Future of the Juku Eja
From the Golden Era of Ramang to the modern triumph under Pluim, PSM Makassar has proven its resilience. The club remains a symbol of pride for Makassar and a powerhouse in Indonesian football. As the Juku Eja continue their fight in Liga 1, their passionate supporters ensure the cry of Ewako! will echo for generations to come.