LAHAD DATU: The State Government will continue strengthening efforts to build a sports complex in every district to ensure communities throughout Sabah have access to quality sporting facilities and opportunities to develop local talent.
State Youth Development, Sports and Economy Creative Minister, Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan, said the initiative is in line with Sabah’s vast geographical landscape, where accessible sports infrastructure is essential to meet the needs of local communities.
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“Sabah is among the states with the highest number of sports complexes. This policy is designed to ensure every district is equipped with facilities capable of supporting community recreation, school activities and organised sports,” he said during his official visit to the Lahad Datu Sports Complex and Arena Belia Lahad Datu as part of the ministry’s outreach programme.
Nizam said it was his first visit to both facilities since assuming his responsibilities.
He said the visit enabled him to inspect the condition of the sports complex, observe activities at the Youth Arena and receive a comprehensive briefing from the management on the operation of the facilities as well as future development requirements.
He said the covered multi-purpose court at the Lahad Datu Sports Complex is now about 99 per cent complete and would provide an additional venue for sports and community activities once fully operational.
Nizam expressed appreciation for the progress achieved, adding that the new facility would further benefit residents in Lahad Datu by expanding the range of sporting and recreational activities available.
He said the management had also submitted several proposals to further improve the complex, including the construction of an indoor multi-purpose hall, upgrading the access road and enhancing other facilities.
“Every proposal will be carefully evaluated before implementation, with priorities determined based on available resources and community needs,” he said.
Nizam stressed that all sports facilities should be properly maintained, safe and clean to ensure they remain welcoming venues for families, young people and the wider community.
“Maintaining high standards will encourage more people to use the sports complex for recreation, exercise and community activities,” he said.
According to Nizam, quality sports facilities across Sabah play an important role in identifying and developing promising young athletes from an early age.
He said accessible facilities make it easier for schools, sports associations and local communities to organise training sessions and competitions while creating more opportunities to discover new talent.
“The responsibility for identifying and nurturing young athletes has been entrusted to the Sabah Sports Council through structured grassroots talent identification and development programmes.
“We also encourage parents to make full use of the facilities provided by supporting their children’s participation in athletics, football and other sports that match their interests and abilities,” he said.
Nizam added that sustained investment in sports infrastructure and youth participation would help produce more Sabah athletes capable of excelling at the state, national and international levels, while fostering healthier and more active communities.
