By Shikin Louis
BAU, Aug 19: The RM7.99 million Bau Sports Arena located along Jalan Jambusan is now 94 per cent complete and scheduled for full completion by December 2025, making it the third major venue for sports and community activities in Bau alongside Bau Civic Centre and Bau Mini Stadium.
Tasik Biru assemblyman Dato Henry Harry Jinep said the facility is part of his vision for Greater Bau, where development is expanded beyond the town centre so that surrounding communities also enjoy the benefits.
“We have three futsal courts, six badminton courts, a multipurpose hall, an open gym, and a boxing and Muay Thai training ground,” he told reporters during a site visit today.
According to the project fact sheet, construction began on Oct 6, 2023, with a 20-month contract period under contractor BLM Engineering & Services Sdn Bhd and implementing agency Sarawak Public Works Department (PWD).
Physical progress currently stands at 93.07 per cent compared with the scheduled 99.01 per cent, while financial progress has reached 94.08 per cent against the scheduled 99.04 per cent.
The project has received several extensions of time totalling 69 days, largely due to prolonged bad weather between February and May this year. With the latest adjustment, the new completion date is set for Dec 5, 2025.
Looking ahead, Harry, who is also Deputy Minister of Transport (Maritime and Riverine), said a second phase has been proposed which would include a clubhouse and a small recreational swimming pool for families and children.
“At this stage, we are not considering an Olympic-size pool because maintenance costs are too high, and athletes already have the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre in Kuching.
“What we need here is a family-friendly pool, something like at Sarawak Club or in hotels, where the community has a place to relax and spend time together,” he explained.
He added that the proposed clubhouse could include facilities such as karaoke, snooker, dining areas and other family-oriented amenities to cater to Bau’s diverse community needs.
Harry also emphasised that while funding for the second phase has yet to be secured, he is hopeful that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and the relevant ministries will support the request.
Also present during the visit was Bau District Officer Eddy Nayoi. – DayakDaily
