SIMANGGANG: The Sarawak Government will continue upgrading sports facilities across the state to ensure they are actively used.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that when stadiums are upgraded or newly built, nearby schools should also be allowed to use the facilities so they do not end up underutilised.
“There is no point building stadiums if they are not used, with the grass left to grow long. When we build stadiums, open them up to schools and let the schools use them.
“Do not charge rental fees that are too high. The Sarawak Government has already allocated funds, so make full use of our stadiums and sports fields,” he said when closing the Sukan Sarawak (SUKSAR) at the Sri Aman Indoor Complex here.
Abang Johari said that the state government does not hesitate to invest in facilities for the benefit of the younger generation, but emphasised that such infrastructure must be fully utilised.
“All that I ask is that these facilities are properly used,” he said.
The Premier also said a new approach would be adopted in planning government quarters, with houses for government officers to be built closer to sports fields and recreational areas.
“This way, officers can jog, use the facilities and take care of their health,” he added.
Touching on regional sports development, Abang Johari said Sarawak is prepared to co-sponsor the SEA Games with the Federal Government despite the high costs, as part of efforts to raise the standard of sports in the state.
“When the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, spoke to me and asked whether Sarawak could jointly sponsor the SEA Games, I said that for Sarawak and for Malaysia, we are willing to do so.
“We are prepared to share the funding because we want to raise the standard of sports for Sarawak’s children. At the very least, they will be able to see the required standards, and from there our sports standards will continue to improve,” he said.
He added that hosting or supporting major sporting events would also require further upgrading of stadiums and competition venues to meet international standards.
