Don’t splurge on new stadium, people need help, Selangor govt told

 

The Selangor government has been told that Stadium Shah Alam only needs to be repaired and upgraded, not demolished and replaced. (Wikipedia pic)

PETALING JAYA: A pro-Anwar Ibrahim group has voiced opposition to proposals to demolish Stadium Shah Alam and replace it with a smaller arena.

Otai Reformis secretary Abdul Razak Ismail said the Selangor government will have to spend a big sum to build a new stadium, adding that the funds could be better utilised helping victims of the floods late last year.

“The RM1,000 given to flood victims is not enough compared with the damage to their property which amounts to thousands,” he told FMT.

Razak said there was no need to replace the stadium as the original structure was still safe and only an upgrade was needed.

“Only the roof is damaged, so why is there a need to demolish the stadium? Just upgrade the stadium and repair the damage,” he said.

An Utusan Malaysia report had claimed that Stadium Shah Alam, once the largest in Southeast Asia, would be demolished and replaced with a new and smaller stadium.

The new stadium will reportedly have a capacity of 30,000 to 40,000 spectators, making it easier to maintain, compared with the current stadium which can hold 80,000.

Selangor menteri besar Amirudin Shari said the stadium’s “redevelopment” will only be implemented based on the findings of a special committee, with a decision to be announced soon.

He added that any decision made will also involve the nearby indoor arena, Stadium Malawati. - FMT