KUCHING: The construction of a new velodrome, which is nearing realisation, is expected to complete Sarawak’s ecosystem of world-class sports facilities.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the proposed 60-acre velodrome site identified is located adjacent to the existing Sarawak Sports Complex.
“Overall, the process is almost complete as the land was previously registered under another party.
“There were some complexities in the early stages of reclaiming the land, but these issues are close to being resolved and the site is indeed very suitable,” he said when met by reporters at the Sarawak Cycling Association (SCA) appreciation dinner here last night (Dec 14).
Abdul Karim said the area surrounding the Sarawak Sports Complex was being planned as a major integrated sports hub.
“In addition to the velodrome, the size of the site also allows for the development of other sports facilities such as a BMX track and possibly rugby facilities, subject to further planning after the Thailand SEA Games 2025,” he added.
On cycling development, he said Sarawak was showing encouraging progress, including improvements in the performance of junior athletes based in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Once our own velodrome is completed and officially approved by the state government, I am confident it will further boost interest and enthusiasm for competitive cycling,” he said.
In a separate development, Abdul Karim said 20 recipients were honoured at the SCA Appreciation Dinner.
“The awards recognise athletes and individuals who have brought pride to Sarawak through cycling.
“This is the first time such an appreciation event has been organised to acknowledge those involved in the development and support of the sport,” he said.
He also expressed pride over the presence of Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill, who travelled specially from Bangkok, describing it as a sign of national recognition for Sarawak’s cycling progress.
Touching on youth engagement, he said SCA had consistently worked with various local authorities, including Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS), as well as authorities in Betong and Miri, to organise cycling events across Sarawak.
“Organising races requires a high level of technical expertise. As such, the association provides certified officials and commissaires, while the ministry supports these efforts through financial allocations,” he said.
He stressed that the approach was important to ensure athletes had clear competition targets and to produce more potential riders capable of representing the state and the country.
Beyond athlete development, Abdul Karim also revealed that more than 20 Sarawak officials had been sent to Thailand to learn aspects of SEA Games organisation as early preparation should Sarawak become a co-host in 2027.
“This step is crucial to ensure we are fully prepared in terms of event management, including media facilities and overall operations,” he said.
