KUALA LUMPUR – The Selangor government has vowed to upgrade the Petaling Jaya Hockey Stadium to enhance future hockey activities in the region.
This commitment comes in response to criticism from Malaysian Hockey Confederation president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal, who rebuked the government for its perceived lack of responsibility in maintaining hockey facilities across the state.
Subahan emphasised the importance of proper infrastructure in fostering the growth of the sport.
Speaking to Scoop, Selangor Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneurship Committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi said discussions will be held with Petaling Jaya Mayor, Mohamad Zahri Samingon, to initiate upgrades at the hockey stadium.
He clarified that despite the focus on this particular stadium, the government has never neglected the maintenance of other hockey facilities within the state.
“There are only two hockey rinks, managed by the Petaling Jaya City Council and the Royal Klang City Council (Pandamaran Hockey Stadium), under the jurisdiction of the local authorities.
“These stadiums were renovated in 2015 and are subject to regulation by both councils.
“The state government always works closely with these councils and will always monitor maintenance needs and facilitate repair processes.
“For now, the Petaling Jaya Hockey Stadium needs renovation, and I will discuss this further with the mayor,” said Najwan when contacted.
Addressing Subahan’s assertion regarding the parity between hockey and football, Najwan acknowledged that this issue extends beyond Selangor, with many states facing similar challenges.
“I think this issue is not only limited to Selangor but all states. Even at the national level, only two sports associations can generate income and are more organised in managing their respective associations.
“In my opinion, channelling the same allocation as football and badminton to all sports is not impossible.
“If all state sports associations can improve their management practices and boost the popularity of these sports, they could potentially attract more sponsors,” Najwan added.
Regarding budget allocation, it was reported that the Selangor government allocated RM19 million from its RM2.53 billion state budget spending plan.
The Selangor Sports Council is set to receive RM8 million to reinforce the state’s holistic sports development approach, with an additional RM1 million earmarked for the state e-sports team.
However, the lion’s share of RM10 million has been allocated to Selangor FC for its preparation for the upcoming 2024/2025 Malaysia Super League season and the AFC Asian Champions League 2 competition. – May 2, 2024