Don’t let upgraded sports facilities become ‘white elephants’, says S’wak minister

KUCHING (April 8): Upgraded sports facilities in Sarawak should not be left to become “white elephants” but must be fully utilised through regular activities and competitions, said Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

The State Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development stressed that sports associations play a vital role in ensuring government-provided facilities remain active and are not left idle.

“We have upgraded sports facilities in Sarawak involving significant expenditure, including about RM270 million for the Sarawak Sports Complex in preparation for the SEA Games in September next year.

“Once the facilities have been upgraded, we do not want them to become ‘white elephants’.

“Sports associations must strive to ensure these facilities are continuously used and kept alive with various activities,” he said during the 2026 Youth and Sports Grant Presentation Ceremony held at a local hotel here.

Abdul Karim, who is also Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, noted that some facilities are currently underutilised or in unsatisfactory condition.

“I have seen facilities that are left idle and not properly used.

“Sometimes, the thought crosses my mind to demolish them and build new facilities that are more suitable for active sports,” he said.

He added that sports events can also be supported through funding under the State Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, as sports form an integral part of tourism.

“Sports is part of tourism. That is why we see many events such as marathons and endurance races being organised, which are able to attract participation and attendance from outside,” he said.

Abdul Karim urged all sports associations to develop more structured frameworks, including annual competitions, to ensure the continued growth of sports.

“Do not regard small allocations as a barrier. What matters is the activeness and efforts of associations in developing their respective sports,” he said.

Also present were State Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, the ministry’s permanent secretary Dzulkornain Masron and other officials.