RM144 mln to upgrade SEA Games venues

THE state government will set aside an initial RM120 million for the 34th South East Asia (SEA) Games in 2027, alongside RM144 million to upgrade key sports facilities ahead of the regional sporting event.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said 11 key sports facilities would be upgraded, with all facilities targeted to be competition-ready by mid-2027

The facilities include Sarawak Stadium, Sarawak Indoor Stadium, Lawn Bowl Arena, Wushu Training Centre, Sarawak Lawn Tennis Centre, Sarawak Shooting Range, Sarawak Squash Centre, Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre, Sarawak Archery Centre and Sarawak Petanque Centre.

He said that these key sport infrastructures upgrading will strengthen Sarawak’s capacity to host future international events, including Islamic Solidarity Games in 2029.

“We will continue to strengthen sports from the grassroots up. RM5 million is allocated for Sukan Sarawak (SUKSAR) 2027, supporting our sporting aspirations in line with the SEA Games, while RM1.2 million for Sarawak X-Tive 2027 that will bring sports closer to communities across our districts, targeting 120,000 participants.

“A further RM21 million will support sports and recreational facilities across the divisions, ensuring that more Sarawakians could participate, develop their talent, and lead healthier, more active lives,” he said.

He said this when tabling the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 today (Oct 12).

Earlier, he said that Sarawak will co-host the 2027 SEA Games, hosting 18 of the 38 sports, with Kuching serving as the central hub.

“The event is expected to welcome more than 3,000 athletes, 1,700 technical personnel, 4,000 volunteers and 5,500 officials,” he added.