Malaysia's Shah Alam Sports Complex set for major redevelopment

The Shah Alam Sports Complex, located to the west of Malaysia’s capital of Kuala Lumpur, is set to undergo a long-awaited overhaul with Populous engaged and a contractor appointed to transform it into a new economic, social and environmental landmark.

Malaysian Resources Corp Bhd (MRCB) via a sub-subsidiary has accepted a contract from the Selangor state government to construct the Shah Alam Sports Complex (KSSA).

In a statement, MRCB advised that the RM2.94 billion (US$683.9 million) contact will include rebuilding of the 80,000-capacity Shah Alam Stadium, which is currently being demolished.

Aiming for completion in 2029, the project will span a 48-month period and transform the sports complex into a sports city-style development for Selangor.

The project will be designed by Populous and local firm Hijjas.

In a statement, MRCB advised "the KSSA development represents a bold transformation of Shah Alam into a vibrant, multi-functional urban precinct that reflects the shared vision of the State's leadership and MRCB's expertise in integrated urban developments.”

Anchored by a 45,000-capacity stadium with a retractable pitch, the project will integrate community, commerce, and infrastructure across a 310, metre² green flora sanctuary.

According to MRCB, the Shah Alam Stadium, which was built in 1994, was utilised less than 30 times a year, mainly for football matches. Under the new plan, it will be redefined as a dynamic, year-round destination.

MRCB Chairman, Datuk Nasir Mohd Nasir Ab Latif stated “we are humbled to be entrusted with delivering this visionary project for the State of Selangor.

“With our proven track record in urban regeneration and sustainable infrastructure, we are committed to building more than a stadium, we are creating a living, breathing destination for the people of Selangor.”

Since construction in the 1990s, facilities at the Shah Alam Stadium have fallen into a state of disrepair, leading to the need for a complete redevelopment.

Back in 2017, MRCB had through its indirectly-owned subsidiary, Rukun Juang Sdn Bhd, completed the KL Sports City Project comprising the redesign, refurbishment, renovation and/or upgrading of the National Stadium, Axiata Arena, National Aquatic Centre and National Hockey Stadium located at Bukit Jalil.

Image: The revitalisation of the Shah Alam Sports Complex will see the replacement of the 80,000-capacity Shah Alam Stadium. Credit: Shutterstock.