Sarawak is set to make a significant leap in sports infrastructure with the construction of its first-ever velodrome.
TVS had previously reported that the ambitious project was announced post the 21st Malaysian Games (SUKMA) 2024 by Sarawak Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Karim said tha the facility aims to uplift track cycling in the region.
The same report said that the velodrome is expected to be completed within the next two to three years, with an estimated budget of over RM100 million.
Boosting Track Cycling in Sarawak
The primary motivation behind the velodrome project is to provide state-of-the-art facilities for track cyclists in Sarawak.
Currently Karim noted that many aspiring cyclists face challenges due to the lack of proper training infrastructure. It had also limited the number of cycling sporting events which Sarawak could organize.
The new velodrome will address this gap, offering a dedicated space for athletes to train and compete at a high level.
Sarawak Velodrome Location and Design
Details of the Velodrome has recently surfaced with Dayak Daily quoting Karim saying the velodrome will be located near the Sarawak Sports Complex in Petra Jaya.
This puts the facility close to other major sports facilities ensuring easy access for athletes and spectators alike.
The design of the velodrome is being handled by a leading consultant from West Germany, Walter von Lütcken, who has experience in designing similar facilities in the Middle East and Malaysia.
Karim says that the design emphasizes multi-purpose use, with spaces for conferences and other events in the middle part of the velodrome.
Land Acquisition and Project Timeline
The Sarawak government is also currently actively working on acquiring over 60 acres of land from the Federal Land Commissioner for the velodrome project.
The land acquisition process is expected to be straightforward, as the state government has the authority to reclaim the land for development purposes.
Once the land is secured, the construction is anticipated to be completed by 2027.
What is a Velodrome
A velodrome is a specialized arena designed for track cycling.
Characterized by its oval shape and steeply banked tracks, a velodrome offers cyclists the opportunity to reach impressive speeds in a controlled environment.
The smooth, hardwood surface minimizes friction, allowing bikes to glide effortlessly as they navigate the circuit.
