KUDUS – Thousands of residents packed the Simpang Tujuh Kudus square on Friday (12/6) evening for a public screening of the 2026 World Cup. The event, a collaboration between the Kudus Regency Government and TVRI with support from PT Sukun Wartono Indonesia, marked the first time an open-air public viewing of the World Cup has been held in the Kudus Regency.
The event provided official match coverage for the public to enjoy free of charge. Beyond entertainment, the initiative aims to strengthen community social interaction, revitalize public spaces, and provide economic benefits to local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Head of TVRI Central Java Station, Sanny April Linda Damanik, expressed her appreciation to the Kudus Regency Government for their support. She noted that the partnership allows the public to view matches legally and in accordance with official broadcasting regulations.
“We thank the Kudus Regency Government for facilitating this public space for 'Bola Gembira' (Joyful Football). As the nation’s unifier, TVRI is prepared to support official public screenings by providing free access to licensed broadcasts in public spaces, ensuring that residents can watch matches safely, comfortably, and legally,” Sanny said.
She added that the collaboration between TVRI, the Kudus Regency Government, and PT Sukun Wartono serves as a model of synergy in delivering accessible public entertainment while fostering communal spirit.
“We hope this partnership continues and inspires other regions. Through 'Bola Gembira', we are not just watching football; we are building a positive space for community interaction as we collectively anticipate the World Cup,” she said.
Through this event, the Kudus Regency Government hopes public spaces will increasingly serve as community hubs that foster sportsmanship, social solidarity, and local economic growth through the active participation of MSMEs.
Starting in the evening, residents began gathering in the city center for the opening festivities. In addition to the match broadcast, organizers provided entertainment including a live music stage and various supporting activities to engage attendees.
The Simpang Tujuh square was bustling with citizens from all walks of life. The crowd included not only adults but also families who brought their children to enjoy the prepared activities.
Amusement rides available around the venue drew significant crowds, adding to the festive atmosphere and providing family-friendly entertainment options for those attending the public viewing.
In addition, a row of micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) booths complemented the event, offering attendees a variety of local culinary delights and goods throughout the festivities.
The high turnout highlights the vitality of Kudus city center, which frequently serves as a hub for public events. The 2026 World Cup public viewing provided an alternative weekend entertainment venue for residents to enjoy with family and friends.
Visitor Rika Nadila, 25, a resident of Mejobo Village, said the stop was unplanned. While passing through the Simpang Tujuh town square with three friends, she decided to join in on the opening night festivities.
"Kudus is clearly a vibrant city; it never tires of organizing events that bring joy to the community," Rika said.
She noted that such initiatives should be continued in the future, as they offer accessible entertainment for a wide range of residents.
Although not a dedicated football fan, Rika said she has been following the World Cup buzz on social media. She praised the downtown event for offering more than just the match, with supporting activities that enhanced the overall experience.
"It’s great. There are rides, MSME booths, and even free health screenings. If you get hungry, there is food available. It is great to see Kudus so lively, and I hope future events are even better," she added.
Irfan, 30, a resident of Japan Village in the Colo district, shared similar enthusiasm. He attended the 2026 World Cup viewing at Simpang Tujuh square with his wife and child.
Despite the main match not kicking off until 2:00 a.m. WIB, Irfan arrived in the evening to soak in the atmosphere with fellow residents.
"This is a great event. I hope to see more like this for other tournaments, such as the Asian Cup," he said.
The match between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina was the highlight of the viewing party. Irfan noted that he was rooting for Canada during the game.
He noted that public viewing events continue to draw significant attention, particularly as fan-favorite teams take to the pitch in upcoming matches.
“If these could be held daily until the final, it would further boost public enthusiasm, given how much the people of Kudus love soccer,” he said.
Kudus Regent Sam'ani Intakoris, who attended the opening ceremony, expressed his appreciation to all parties involved in organizing the event. He stated that support from private enterprises and national television stations allows the public to access shared entertainment.
Sam'ani remarked that public viewing events serve not only as entertainment but also as a way to create a lively atmosphere for the community.
“We want the public to be happy, for children to play safely, and for us all to remain resilient in the face of economic volatility,” Sam'ani said.
He further explained that hosting the 2026 World Cup public viewing is part of an effort to introduce the concept of sports tourism to the people of Kudus.
He expressed hope that these activities will foster greater interest in sports, particularly soccer, while strengthening support for the development of Indonesian athletics.
“Praise be to God, today we opened the World Cup public viewing, which provides both education and entertainment for the community,” he said.
Sam'ani also highlighted the various side events held during the proceedings. The inclusion of MSME stalls, live music, game rides, and other entertainment activities is seen as having a positive impact on the local economy.
The participation of MSMEs provides new business opportunities while stimulating local economic activity. Meanwhile, the public gains access to a recreational space that can be enjoyed with family.
The 2026 World Cup match between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina took place on Saturday (6/13) at 2:00 a.m. WIB and served as the centerpiece for the public viewing event held at the Simpang Tujuh Kudus town square.
The Kudus Regency Government also plans to expand these events in the future, including a potential collaboration with the Kudus Police to host public screenings at police sub-district (Mapolsek) stations across each district.
The initiative is expected to broaden public access to collective football match viewing, eliminating the need to travel to the city center.
According to Sam'ani, sports-based activities offer multifaceted benefits, serving as both public entertainment and a catalyst for local economic development. Through the sports tourism concept, these events are intended to foster economic growth while providing a space for social interaction among residents.
Furthermore, such activities are seen as an educational tool to cultivate a sporting culture. Increased community participation in sports is expected to bolster support for the development of the athletic sector, particularly football.
“This initiative can stimulate the economy, entertain the public, and promote a sports culture in Kudus,” he added.
The public viewing of the 2026 World Cup in Kudus drew thousands of residents to the Simpang Tujuh Square, creating a lively atmosphere. The public enthusiasm, the participation of local MSMEs, and the collaboration of various stakeholders highlight the strong community interest in sports events organized as public entertainment and communal gatherings. (hsym/mkk)
