A total of RM7.05 million has been approved for the comprehensive upgrading of the State Stadium with the Sarawak State Sports Council (SSC) appointed as the implementing agency.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said the project aims to modernise the facilities to ensure they are safe, functional and meet international standards.
“The scope of works includes upgraded seating and refurbished toilets and surau (prayer rooms) as well as the installation of a new LED lighting system and a high-definition LED screen,” he said.
Rentap was responding to Tupong assemblyman Datuk Fazzruddin Abdul Rahman during the Q&A session in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
The Layar assemblyman added that the project would also involve improvements to the ticket counters, a full renovation of the dressing rooms and essential repairs and upgrades to existing stadium infrastructure.
He said the high-quality sports facilities are crucial for grassroots programmes, such as the PETRONAS Youth Football Club League (PYFCL).
According to Rentap, improved infrastructure will provide a more organised environment for training, competitions and talent identification.
“The involvement of the Sarawak Football Association (FAS) and Kuching City FC (KCFC) will strengthen the pathway for players to transition from grassroots to the professional level, fostering a more sustainable and competitive football ecosystem in Sarawak,” he said.
He added that the ministry, through SSC, is also strengthening collaboration with State Sports Associations, the Sarawak State Education Department and other stakeholders to ensure grassroots and school sports development remains systematic and continuous.
According to him, the collaboration focuses on coach development among teachers, talent identification programmes and the organisation of school and community tournaments.
“SSC also continues to organise Level 1 to Level 3 Sports Science Courses to produce more qualified and competent coaches across various sporting disciplines,” he said.
