Kuching tennis centre for SEA Games to undergo major upgrading

KUCHING (Jan 27): Works to upgrade the tennis courts at the Sarawak Lawn Tennis Centre at Jalan Crookshank here in preparation for the 2027 SEA Games is expected to begin around May this year, said Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

The Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister revealed that the upgrading will be a major one, particularly in terms of lighting, spectator facilities and supporting amenities.

“(The upgrading works) will focus on improving existing facilities rather than expanding the premises.

“Currently, the seating area is only in the middle but it will be widened along the whole stretch to accommodate more spectators,” he told reporters after a press conference at Baitul Makmur II building here on Monday.

The upgrading works would not involve increasing the size of the complex as improvements would be carried out within the existing premises.

“The existing facilities such as the canteen, toilets and media room will be upgraded. The main court, where the finals will be held, will also be improved.

“There will be seating for VVIPs, enthusiasts and teams. We feel very honoured to be able to host the SEA Games,” he added.

No significant disruption to scheduled tournaments is expected.

“Unlike the Sarawak Stadium, the upgrading for tennis is more internal, so there will not be much disturbance to other events. There are competitions scheduled in September and October, and these can still be held as they will not be affected,” the minister remarked.

The possibility of constructing roofed or indoor courts was ruled out as it is not feasible due to land limitations and high costs including maintenance.

According to SLTA president Dato Patrick Liew, the existing 13 courts are sufficient for hosting the SEA Games and only require upgrading.

“Lighting will be improved so that matches can be played both during the day and at night,” he said.

Sarawak has been confirmed as a co-host for the 2027 SEA Games and will serve as the main cluster, hosting 17 sports.

Malaysia will host the 34th edition of the Games from Sept 18 to 29, 2027.

The Sarawak government has allocated RM350 million for preparations, including upgrading works at the Sarawak Stadium.