By DayakDaily Team
SELANGAU, Feb 11: Rental rate adjustments for Sarawak’s sports facilities have been temporarily frozen for reassessment, as the State government reaffirms its commitment to keeping sports infrastructure affordable for youth and rural communities.
Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah explained that the current rental structure includes extra charges for certain amenities such as air conditioning, lighting, and other support facilities, which can push costs into the thousands of ringgit.
“This makes it challenging for young people and rural communities to access government-provided sports facilities.
“For instance, using air conditioning or lighting adds extra costs, and total rental fees can reach thousands of ringgit,” he said as quoted by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) during a press conference after the groundbreaking ceremony of the Selangau Mini Sports Complex today.
Abdul Karim emphasised that the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) will continue to manage and supervise sports infrastructure, ensuring facilities remain safe and well-maintained.
He added that the freeze on rental rate proposals allows for careful reassessment, noting that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has emphasised that rates should not be set so high that public access is limited.
“I have received a clear signal on this. We will review and decide promptly because if rates remain high, sports facilities will not be fully utilised,” he said.
On preparations for the 2027 SEA Games, Abdul Karim said upgrades to sports facilities across Sarawak are underway to ensure all venues meet international competition standards.
The Sarawak Stadium is currently closed for extensive renovations, with completion expected three to four months ahead of the Games in September 2027.
Other facilities being upgraded include the State’s main stadium, shooting range, squash and tennis courts, swimming venues, and several additional sites. — DayakDaily
