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By William Isau
SIBU, Aug 6: It was a historic day for the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) with the completion of Dewan Canselor Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud.
UTS vice-chancellor Datuk Dr Khairuddin Ab Hamid said the hall was in recognition of the services and contributions of the current Head of State and as a mark of respect for Taib as the first Chancellor of UTS until today.
“The hall’s construction, which costs around RM150 million, started in September 2019 and should have been completed in July 2022.
“But delays were inevitable due to the movement control order (MCO) during Covid-19 in 2020 and 2021 and was finally completed in June 2023,” he said.
He said this during the officiation of the hall performed by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today.
Khairuddin added that the hall consists of three main hall rooms, each of which could accommodate approximately 850 people.
“For seminar purposes, if the three main halls are combined as one grand hall, then it can accommodate a capacity of almost 2,800 people, while for banquet purposes, it can accommodate around 2,000 people.
“It is also equipped with three seminar rooms that each have a capacity of 130 people. The hall also provides a parking space that can accommodate 340 cars and 60 motorcycles,” he said.
In addition, this Hall is also equipped with kitchen equipment and food preparation that is equivalent to a five-star hotel.
“We have been waiting for a long time to have a hall this great. Coincidentally, in conjunction with UTS’ 10th-anniversary celebration, this hall is a special gift to all campus residents, staff, and students,” he said.
The seventh convocation ceremony was held in the hall. — DayakDaily
