MPK has proposed to build a sports complex on a parcel of land (left, across the road) along Persiaran Hamzah Alang in Kapar, Klang. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
RESIDENTS in Klang may get a sports complex complete with football field, race track and indoor sports arena if Klang Municipal Council’s (MPK) proposal gets the green light.
Those living in towns like Kapar and Meru will benefit from this facility.
MPK president Noraini Roslan plans for the proposed complex, costing RM40mil, to be built in Bandar Bukit Raja and be known as North Klang Sports Complex.
“It would be similar to Stadium Sultan Suleiman off Jalan Istana. Construction of such a sports facility is projected to take three to five years,” she said.
Noraini says proposal for sports complex to have football field, athletic track and even swimming pool.She added that the sports facility could include a football field, running track for athletics, an indoor sports arena and, if there is extra budget, a swimming pool.
“Our proposed project is based on the availability of an estimated 16.1ha of land at Persiaran Hamzah Alang in Kapar. The land was given by a property developer in Bukit Raja as part of recreational facilities for the people,” said Noraini.
Fruit trader Amir Ismail, 32, said building a sports complex in Kapar would provide an economic boost to the local community.
“Locals could benefit from the availability of part-time or full-time work opportunities to manage the upkeep of the complex, such as cleaning works or maintenance, and offering mobile food services.
“Sports tournaments would also see people and sports teams from outside Klang attending, which would increase profits for local businesses,” said the father of two.
Shahir Sham, 23, who is pursuing his final year in Bachelors of Entrepreneurship at a local university, said such sports facilities could offer opportunities to young graduates to start sports accessory businesses near the venue.
“It would encourage small businesses related to sports or even eateries to mushroom in the district,” he said.
Fathima Mydin, 27, a sports teacher, said a sports complex with indoor and outdoor facilities was much needed by the community.
“They need not travel outside Kapar to keep with their training schedules.
“Having a sports complex in Kapar would see more people participating in sports.
“It can help individuals stay healthy and bring communities together,” Fathima added.
Klang Consumer Association president Devadass Anjan said the idea to have a sports complex for the people of north Klang was good but MPK must conduct a feasibility study.
“MPK must ensure the project can deliver substantial and long-lasting advantages to the people. It must not become a white elephant.
“People’s views must be taken into account before a working paper is drawn up,” he said.
Devadass added that the project must consider potential environmental and social benefits, and that financial viability must be factored into an assessment of the proposal.
