KUALA LUMPUR – Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari has set a firm requirement for all SEA Games 2027 venues in Sarawak to be fully completed and operational at least three to four months before the opening ceremony in September 2027.
The timeline is intended to provide sufficient buffer for final inspections, system testing and operational readiness checks across all facilities ahead of the games.
Taufiq said the approach is designed to ensure that any technical or operational issues can be identified and resolved early, rather than during the final stretch of preparations.
He said upgrading works in Sarawak are currently progressing according to schedule, with some projects expected to be completed as early as January 2027, while the remainder are targeted for completion by June the same year.
Sarawak plays a key role as one of the main hosts for the 2027 edition, with a significant number of sporting events to be staged in the state.
“I was briefed by the Public Works Department (JKR) and relevant agencies on the progress of the projects, and overall I am satisfied with the development achieved so far,” Taufiq told reporters after inspecting upgrading works at Sarawak Stadium, which will host the official opening ceremony.
He also visited several key venues, including the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre and Stadium Perpaduan, and expressed satisfaction that works are progressing as planned.
The minister commended the Sarawak government for its strong commitment in delivering world-class sporting facilities for the games.
Sarawak has allocated RM350 million for hosting preparations, while about RM280 million has been channelled specifically towards upgrading sports facilities, including Sarawak Stadium.
The total investment of around RM630 million, he said, reflects the state’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful hosting of the SEA Games.
The ministry, he added, will continue to closely monitor all projects to ensure timely delivery and prevent delays that could affect overall preparations.
“We want everything ready ahead of time so that all venues are in top condition and the Games can run seamlessly,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the state will host 17 of the 38 sports disciplines, in addition to staging the opening ceremony.
Kuala Lumpur will host 14 sports, Penang six, and Johor one.
He said Sarawak’s focus goes beyond infrastructure delivery, with emphasis also placed on ensuring a positive experience for athletes and officials from across ASEAN.
“We want them to leave with good memories, which is why all facilities, including washrooms and support amenities, are being fully upgraded,” he said. – April 28, 2026