I was only 23 years old when I decided to leave my family and friends when I moved to Indonesia to join PSM Makassar.
Not an easy choice for someone who was born and raised in the Netherlands and has never left Europe to pursue a football career until then.
In the beginning, I myself had some doubts and some of my friends were not sure about my choice.
Even so, I believe that it is the right step for me because I have a clear plan and vision of what I want to achieve.
Long story short, after nearly four years, I can say that my decision was right.
All my doubts immediately vanished when I felt the enthusiasm and passion of football from the fans in Indonesia. Supporters, coaches, teammates; they all welcomed me warmly and it didn’t take long for me to think of PSM Makassar like home.
My first year in Indonesia was a great experience with many accomplishments. Indonesian football is full of drama, but I totally fell in love with the great atmosphere, both on and off the pitch.
As time went by, my love for Indonesia continued to grow and finally I decided to buy a house in Bali.
All of this would not have been possible without my family’s support. They have supported me from the start and know how happy I am here.
My mother and grandmother watched as I scored my first goal for PSM Makassar. I dedicate those moments of my celebration to them as a way of thanking them for their endless support.
Even though I ended up leaving PSM Makassar for Persija Jakarta in search of a new challenge, I have nothing but happy memories of my time there. I will always respect the club as well as the fans and I am grateful for the time I had there. Winning the Indonesian Cup is the best thing. I hope we will continue to greet each other as friends when we meet again.
The way Indonesian supporters always support their favorite team in every match gives me goosebumps. The love of the fans spurs me to always give my best on the pitch.
After almost four years here, Indonesia is no longer a foreign place to me. Indonesia is home. This is a place where I not only strive to achieve success as a footballer, but also a place for me to do my best, to repay the amazing fans. I will always give my all in every game I play.
Hopefully that way, I get the opportunity to defend the Indonesian national team which is the highest achievement.
And the most important thing is to bring the national team to success and win trophies for Indonesia; the country I love!
