SIBU: The University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) is preparing to host its 7th Convocation in August, and it is expected to be the first held in the university’s newly-constructed grand hall, which can accommodate up to 4,000 people.
According to vice chancellor of UTS Professor Datuk Dr Khairuddin Abdul Hamid, the hall’s construction is almost completed, and the contractor is expected to hand over the hall to the university next month.
“We hope by next month the contractors will handover the hall to us. But of course, we need to do some internal preparation in term of furniture and touch up,” said Khairuddin when met by reporters after the distribution bubur lambuk programme yesterday (March 30).
He added that they aim to invite the head of state Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud to officiate the hall’s launch during the convocation. The grand hall, which cost RM120 million, is named after Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, the head of state.
Khairuddin noted that the grand hall, which is comparable to the Borneo Convention Center Kuching (BCCK) and is currently the largest hall in town, is equipped with several small halls for discussions and seminars in addition to the main hall. The hall’s facilities also include a full kitchen that can cater to full banquets. “It is not just a main hall, but it is also equipped with a few small halls for discussions and seminars. We also have a full-fledged kitchen that can cater for full banquets,” he said.
When asked whether the public can book the hall for occasions, Khairuddin said that they have received several inquiries.
“We have received a lot of calls about it, but we have to put it on hold until we, as the owner, use the hall first. Many people are interested in using it for functions and private occasions,” he said.
