Abd Karim: Kuching sports facilities to undergo upgrades ahead of 2027 SEA Games

KUCHING (Jan 6): All major sports facilities in Kuching earmarked for the 2027 SEA Games will undergo upgrading works, with construction expected to begin this month following the completion of tender processes.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the upgrades must be completed by June 2027 to allow sufficient time for testing and preparations ahead of the Games, which will be held in September 2027.

“We have less than two years. Contractors appointed must ensure these facilities are ready well before the SEA Games,” he said after officiating the closing ceremony of the 52nd Sarawak Age Group Swimming Championships at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre here on Sunday.

Facilities slated for upgrading include the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre, Sarawak Stadium, the indoor stadium, squash centre, shooting range, cricket facilities and the wushu venue.

However, Abdul Karim expressed disappointment over the malfunctioning LED timing board at the aquatic centre, describing it as an embarrassing lapse in facility management.

“Facilities under the Sarawak Sports Corporation must always be in tip-top condition. When something is not working, the minister must be informed. It should not be kept quiet,” he said, adding that officers must remain committed to their responsibilities, including on weekends.

On concerns that the upgrading works may disrupt athletes’ training and competitions, Abdul Karim said efforts would be made to minimise the impact on preparations for Malaysia Games (Sukma) and other tournaments.

“Where possible, facilities will remain operational. If upgrading works do not affect core areas, training and competitions can continue with proper barricading,” he said.

The minister added that similar approaches would be adopted at other venues, including the squash centre and shooting range, where only specific components such as skeet and trap facilities require upgrading.

Apart from infrastructure improvements, Abdul Karim said the Sarawak Sports Complex would continue to be developed as a vibrant, people-friendly space.

“This complex belongs to the people. It should not be reserved only for elite athletes. Public access must be encouraged to grow sports participation,” he said, adding that more open tournaments would also be promoted.

He also revealed plans to introduce sports-friendly commercial amenities such as canteens and leisure spaces around selected venues to allow families and visitors to relax while athletes train.

On accommodation, Abdul Karim expressed confidence in Sarawak’s readiness, citing experience from hosting Sukma, which involved larger numbers than expected for the SEA Games.

“For the SEA Games, athletes and officials will be housed in star-graded hotels, and we have sufficient capacity. Apartments will also be available for supporters,” he said.

Abdul Karim added that Sarawak aims to provide a media centre and overall hosting standards that surpass previous SEA Games hosts.