By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 2: The iconic Kuching Civic Centre, a landmark for 37 years, will be transformed into an esports hub ahead of the SEA Games 2027, following the completion of ongoing reroofing works.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah explained that the current upgrading of the Kuching Civic Centre, involving RM5 million for reroofing of the main tower, is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026.
“Beyond the reroofing works, additional upgrading initiatives will be carried out in preparation for hosting esports events for the SEA Games 2027, as well as to develop the facility into a Youth Hub,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Sitting today.
Abdul Karim also highlighted upgrades across other civic centres to ensure safe and conducive conditions for public use.
Sibu Civic Centre will undergo major architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical improvements costing RM16.2 million, with completion targeted for the third quarter of 2027.
“Samarahan, Kapit, and Limbang civic centres will each receive RM5 million for major reroofing works,” he said.
Abdul Karim also informed that State Stadium, the home ground of Kuching City FC, will see RM7.05 million in enhancements, including repairs to seating, facilities, and infrastructure, alongside new ticketing entrances, an outdoor LED screen, and upgraded LED lighting.
“Apart from that, additional support comes from the Ministry of Youth and Sports Malaysia (KBS), which has allocated RM500,000 to Sarawak Sports Council (SSC) to upgrade the football field at Stadium Negeri in Petra Jaya, Kuching,” he said.
KBS has also approved RM1.26 million for small-scale sports facilities, covering upgrades to the MAKSAK Sarikei Division tennis court, the synthetic field at Bintulu Development Authority, the futsal court at Lundu Sports Complex, the roofed futsal court at RGC Layar Betong, and the construction of a new football field at Kampung Long Bedian, Telang Usan, Miri.
“Meanwhile, new pickleball and volleyball courts at Miri Youth Centre have been funded at RM500,000 each,” he added.
Abdul Karim emphasised that these upgrades reflect the government’s commitment to nurturing youth development, sports excellence, and creating modern, multifunctional facilities across Sarawak. — DayakDaily
