By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Feb 12: Sarawak Stadium is set for a transformative RM184.32 million facelift as construction works officially commence today in preparation for the SEA Games 2027, with completion targeted by June 2027 to allow ample time for testing and rehearsals ahead of the regional sporting spectacle.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the project is focused entirely on ensuring the stadium meets the demands and scale of the SEA Games.
“The stadium was built more than 40 years ago. It is timely for an upgrade to meet changing needs and the scale of events we plan to host,” he said at a press conference after the handover of documents and site to the appointed contractor at Sarawak Stadium today.
The RM184.32 million project has been awarded to Hartanah Construction Sdn Bhd, with Jurutera Perunding Kenyalang Sdn Bhd serving as the lead consultant.
Among the most significant upgrades is the replacement of the existing roof, including the installation of a new roof truss system that will dramatically transform the stadium’s external appearance.
All existing seats will be replaced with modern foldable seating, while the façade and main entrance will be redesigned to present a grander, more welcoming image befitting an international event.
“For major events, motorcades carrying guests of honour such as the Sarawak Governor or the Premier will enter through a proper grand entrance instead of from underneath as before,” Abdul Karim explained.
Additional works include seating terrace upgrades, structural repairs, façade enhancements, architectural improvements and interior refurbishments. Holding rooms and VIP areas will also be upgraded to meet current standards.
Beyond the stadium, Sarawak is preparing to host 17 SEA Games sports, with upgrades underway at several key facilities statewide. These include the Pandalela Rinong Aquatic Centre for swimming and diving events, the cricket ground, archery range, shooting range near Sarawak Stadium, petanque court in Santubong, softball field near Stadium Perpaduan, tennis courts near Dewan Suarah, the Wushu Centre and the Stadium Perpaduan Gymnastics Arena.
Abdul Karim revealed that the shooting range will be further enhanced with the addition of skeet and trap facilities, which will require the acquisition of additional land.
“Once completed, Sarawak will have the best shooting range in Malaysia,” he said.
Sarawak Stadium currently accommodates about 40,000 spectators, a capacity Abdul Karim described as sufficient for Kuching and its surrounding areas.
However, upgrading of the pitch will be deferred until after the SEA Games, as the field will be utilised for opening ceremony performances.
“We have a very good team here. I am confident that we can deliver the best opening ceremony and the best organised SEA Games ever held,” he added.
Malaysia will host the SEA Games for the sixth time, with Sarawak playing a pivotal role in what will be a historic edition held beyond Kuala Lumpur. — DayakDaily
