Minister confirms Taha Ariffin Stadium is match-ready to int’l standards despite ongoing renovations

Abdul Karim (center) speaking to reporters after officiating the Sarawak National Sports Integrity Conference 2026 at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here on Sept 28, 2026. Photo credit: Ukas

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Sept 28: Taha Ariffin Stadium is now equipped to host high-level football matches although further venue upgrades remain ongoing, says Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak (MYSED) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

The stadium, formerly known as the Sarawak State Stadium, has undergone substantial refurbishment works to meet international standards for major fixtures, including the installation of proper bucket seating to replace the old concrete terraces.

“I happened to fly over the venue by helicopter two days ago, and you can clearly see the transformation.

“The seating alone is a massive upgrade from the old concrete steps. It has now fulfilled all the prerequisite requirements to host top-tier football,” he told reporters after officiating the Sarawak National Sports Integrity Conference 2026 at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here today.

The ongoing improvements also cover the stadium’s turf, changing rooms, spectator seating and other facilities, with the works previously targeted for completion by October this year.

Safety measures are also being implemented in stages, including provisions to ensure spectators can enter and exit the stadium safely during full-capacity events, in line with requirements and standards set by the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (Bomba) and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).

Rallying local football enthusiasts, Abdul Karim appealed to fans of Kuching City FC and Sarawak football to attend in full force, highlighting the venue’s upgraded spectator amenities, including renovated seats and modernised public facilities.

However, the minister clarified that while the stadium is match-ready, it is not yet 100 per cent complete. Primary focus and resources are currently directed towards upgrading state sports facilities slated for next year’s SEA Games.

“It is not fully completed yet because our immediate priority remains the key venues needed for the upcoming Games,” he explained.

He added that secondary phase improvements for Taha Ariffin Stadium will follow once those primary facilities are delivered.

The Sarawak government previously approved the renaming of the historic Sarawak State Stadium to Taha Ariffin Stadium in memory of the late Datuk Mohamad Taha Ariffin, a monumental figure in the history and development of Sarawakian football. — DayakDaily