Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim attended the opening of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Sports Bowl at UPSI Sports City in Tanjung Malim, Perak, in conjunction with the varsity’s National Sports Day celebration.
UPSI vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Md Amin Md Taff said the bowling centre had drawn about 5,000 visitors and generated RM200,000 since it became fully operational on Sept 16.
He said the sports industry, sparked by UPSI Sports Bowl, was seen as having the potential to create various socio-economic opportunities in terms of management, maintenance and event organisation.
“Equipped with 24 international-standard lanes, UPSI Sports Bowl has become a focal point for family recreation, youth activities and local visitors.
“This impact has, to some extent, put Muallim district and UPSI on the map as a must-visit destination.
“From an economic standpoint, it can serve as a catalyst for job creation, business growth, and the sports industry in Perak,” he said, as reported by Bernama.
Md Amin said UPSI hoped the facility would be utilised to establish a network of bowling expertise, showcase young talents and form an international-standard bowling academy.
Tuanku Zara spent some time checking out the facilities at the centre, which is the first 24-lane bowling centre built in a higher learning institution in the country.
Also present were Perak Mentri Besar’s wife Datin Seri Aezer Zubir, UPSI board of directors chairman Datuk Seri Rohani Parkash Abdullah, UPSI Holdings chairman Datuk Seri Abdul Puhat Mat Nayan and Olympic Council of Malaysia president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria.
Tuanku Zara also flagged off some 3,000 UPSI staff and students for the Millenia Pink Fun Walk, organised in conjunction with World Breast Cancer Day 2024.