KUCHING: Sarawak is ready to upgrade its squash facilities if Kuching is selected to host the squash event at the 2027 SEA Games, says Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Abdul Karim confirmed that Sarawak has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Youth and Sports to be the host city for squash, and will proceed with facility improvements once the green light is given.
“If Kuching is chosen, we’ll definitely need to expand the squash courts and upgrade the current setup.
“That can be done within a few months – the SEA Games is still in 2027,” he said.
He acknowledged recent issues with the air-conditioning system during the ongoing Asian Squash Championships, adding that such problems could be resolved with proper technical support.
“There was a leak and the system kept tripping. I wasn’t informed earlier; if I had been, I would have addressed it before the tournament,” he told reporters when met at the Sarawak Squash Centre on Thursday evening.
In response to heat-related concerns raised by some players, Abdul Karim dismissed the idea that Kuching was hotter than other regional cities such as Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta.
“Whether it’s in Kuala Lumpur or Kuching, the heat is the same.
“Or whether it’s in Jakarta or Thailand, there shouldn’t be complaints that Kuching is hotter. I don’t see a desert in Kuching,” he said.
He stressed that an upgrade is necessary to meet SEA Games requirements.
With the SEA Games still two years away, he believes the necessary improvements can be completed in time, provided Kuching receives the hosting rights.
