SARAWAK is pushing forward with plans to become a regional sports hub, with major upgrades to sports infrastructure led by the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC).
Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said key initiatives include improving grassroots and elite-level facilities and redeveloping Stadium Sarawak to meet international standards.
“A highlight is the redevelopment of Stadium Sarawak, set to meet international standards with smart and athlete-friendly features,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today (May 27).
Later in a press conference, Abdul Karim said the scale of redevelopment for Stadium Sarawak will be determined based on cost and the broader infrastructure needs of the upcoming 2027 SEA GAMES, which will feature 18 different sports.
He added as the ministry overseeing sports in Sarawak, cost remains a key factor in deciding the extent of upgrades for the stadium, which is set to host athletic events and the opening ceremony of the SEA Games in 2027.
“Definitely we will have to see. Cost is one of the major criteria.
“Whether we want to develop the stadium further, and to what stage, especially for athletics — depends on the overall needs.”
Abdul Karim pointed out that the state government must weigh how much can be allocated to each venue, including Stadium Sarawak.
“If the cost doesn’t allow for full upgrades across all facilities, then we’ll assess what improvements are necessary and sufficient for the stadium to host both athletics and the opening ceremony,” he said.
