KUCHING: The new landmark, Wisma Melayu Sarawak, inspired by the tengkolok, a traditional Malay headdress, is now 85 per cent complete.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, during his working visit to the construction site yesterday (Feb 28), has urged for an expedited effort to complete the remaining work, ensuring that the facility is ready for Hari Raya celebrations, including open house events.
“Wisma Melayu will feature a grand hall capable of accommodating 1,500 people, along with a museum, gallery, offices, café, and a surau (prayer room). However, several key aspects still require completion, including the power substation, water supply connection, and interior furnishing,” he said.
He noted that while most materials are available, further coordination is needed to ensure timely installation and completion. Landscaping work is also in progress, but road improvements in front and behind the building require upgrading in collaboration with the Public Works Department (PWD).
Awang Tengah stressed the urgency of completing the remaining 15 per cent of work, acknowledging that the original completion date was set for October last year.
“I would have liked this building to be completed yesterday, but challenges such as the power substation, water connections, and interior works have slowed the process. I have instructed all relevant parties, including consultants, contractors, and project managers, to expedite these final stages,” he added.
On the accessibility of Wisma Melayu, Awang Tengah revealed plans to expand the nearby road from four to six lanes. He also confirmed that the building is included in the Autonomous Rail Transit (ART) route, given its strategic location near the sports complex and stadium.
“This will make Wisma Melayu a strategic and easily accessible location for the public,” he said.
The project is now set for full completion by May 7, 2025.
The RM73 million complex also showcases the elegance of Malay attire, particularly the keringkam, a traditional embroidered shawl or headscarf, owned by AKYBMS (Sarawak Malay Culture Foundation Charitable Trust). This is part of Phase One, while Phase Two will focus on developing commercial facilities, including a hotel.
Once completed, Wisma Melayu, first envisioned by the late Pehin Seri Datuk Patinggi Adenan Satem during his tenure as Chairman of the AKYBMS Board of Trustees in 2007, will serve as a symbol of Sarawak Malay excellence.
