Construction Begins on First All-Glass Squash Court in Borneo
Sarawak is building what is believed to be Borneo’s first all-glass squash court, hence putting Sarawak on the map for future international squash tournaments.
While the court is being built for the up-coming 2027 SEA Games, the facility is expected to further boost interest and popularity of the sport in Sarawak, particularly in Kuching.
The new playing court is expected to cost about RM8 million and will be able to house 800 spectators at one time. It will be built in the Sarawak Squash Centre in Petra Jaya.
Once ready, the facility will be able to host both single and double tournaments with the court being Borneo’s first international-standard, broadcast-ready all-glass court in East Malaysia.
Aside from featuring an all-glass wall, the court will also boast special flooring and lighting.
About Squash Courts
The modern glass court concept has become increasingly popular worldwide due to its striking appearance, enhanced spectator visibility and ability to transform squash into a more television-friendly sport.
Unlike conventional squash courts that utilise solid walls, all-glass courts feature transparent tempered-glass panels on all sides, providing spectators with an unobstructed 360-degree view of the action.
This has made all-glass squash courts to become a hallmark of major professional tournaments around the world.
Prominent Sarawak squash players
Over the decades, Sarawak has produced numerous talented players who represented the state at SUKMA and national competitions.
One of the most notable squash player who hailed from Sarawak is Mohd Azlan Iskanda.
Azlan ranked a career-high world ranking of No. 10 during his prime, with Sarawak also having the likes of Harith Danial Jefri, Altamis Aqhar Sallam, Eugenia David and Whitney Isabelle Wilson, who had been performing well in the sport during past SUKMA editions.
In Malaysia, Penang retired squash queen Nicole Ann David is considered one of best in the world as she was the world number one for a record-breaking 108 consecutive months.
Article sources: