BELAGA — The Apau Koyan Sports Complex has commenced a major transformation to become Sarawak’s newest centre of sporting excellence, with Phase 1 upgrades launching Friday under the supervision of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED).
Murum Assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon officiated the groundbreaking, revealing the project forms the foundation of a masterplan positioning Sungai Asap as a regional sports hub.
“This isn’t just renovation – it’s an investment in rural talent that may produce future champions like Pandelela Rinong,” stated Ugon, alluding to Phase 2 plans including a potential swimming pool.
The RM3.2 million Phase 1 refurbishment (scheduled for completion June 26, 2026) includes:
- Grandstand modernization
- Olympic-standard running track resurfacing
- Football pitch enhancement
- Sports hall retrofitting with multipurpose synthetic flooring
- Weatherproofing of two existing futsal courts
Ugon emphasized contractor accountability, demanding strict adherence to specifications: “Our communities deserve timely, quality delivery.” The complex will serve Belaga’s youth population of 12,000, addressing historical infrastructure gaps in Sarawak’s interior regions.
Notably, the synthetic sports hall surface will enable year-round badminton, futsal, and netball programming – critical in Belaga’s high-rainfall climate. MYSED confirmed the upgrades align with Sarawak’s 2030 Sports Roadmap, targeting 30% increased rural athlete representation in state teams.
