By Karen Bong
SELANGAU, Feb 11: Selangau is set to get a state-of-the-art mini sports complex worth RM11.5 million, featuring a football field built to Olympic and FIFA standards, with completion expected by November 2027.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the two-year project, managed by the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak, will also include a 400-meter athletics track with nine lanes, a grandstand capable of seating 300 spectators, and provisions for additional sports facilities such as futsal courts.
“Originally planned to commence after the Covid-19 pandemic, the project faced delays due to site and design issues, as well as financial constraints with the previous contractor.
“These challenges have now been resolved, and a new contractor has been appointed to bring this project to fruition,” he said in pre-recorded interview shared on his social media after officiating the earth-breaking ceremony for the project today.
Abdul Karim added that there may be potential additional costs due to requests from local elected representatives and the people of Selangau to install a fence around the complex.
“I fully agree with this, and we will look into it. This is to prevent vandalism, encroachment and theft,” he said.
He also highlighted plans to expand the complex to cater to at least five types of sports, ensuring it serves as a multi-functional venue for the local community.
“Beyond football and athletics, we aim to provide facilities for multiple sports, similar to other mini sports complexes across Sarawak. This will help nurture young athletes and encourage wider community participation,” he added.
Abdul Karim emphasised that the mini sports complex is not just about physical infrastructure but also serves as a platform to develop athletes from rural areas, providing opportunities for them to represent their district, division, state, and country.
The facility will also serve local schools and youth organisations, helping to identify talent for tournaments such as the Malaysia Games (SUKMA).
He disclosed that nearly 18 mini sports complexes across Sarawak are either in the planning stage, under construction, or already completed as part of the State’s youth and sports development agenda, reinforcing Sarawak’s commitment to nurturing athletic talent from the grassroots.
Present at the ceremony were Tamin assemblyman Ir Christopher Gira Sambang, Senator Rita Sarimah Patrick Insol, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dzulkornain Masron. — DayakDaily
