The Shah Alam Sports Complex, located to the west of Malaysia’s capital of Kuala Lumpur, is set to undergo a long-awaited overhaul with Populous engaged and a contractor appointed to transform it into a new economic, social and environmental landmark.
Malaysian Resources Corp Bhd (MRCB) via a sub-subsidiary has accepted a contract from the Selangor state government to construct the Shah Alam Sports Complex (KSSA).
In a statement, MRCB advised that the RM2.94 billion (US$683.9 million) contact will include rebuilding of the 80,000-capacity Shah Alam Stadium, which is currently being demolished.
Aiming for completion in 2029, the project will span a 48-month period and transform the sports complex into a sports city-style development for Selangor.
The project will be designed by Populous and local firm Hijjas.
In a statement, MRCB advised "the KSSA development represents a bold transformation of Shah Alam into a vibrant, multi-functional urban precinct that reflects the shared vision of the State's leadership and MRCB's expertise in integrated urban developments.”
Anchored by a 45,000-capacity stadium with a retractable pitch, the project will integrate community, commerce, and infrastructure across a 310, metre² green flora sanctuary.
According to MRCB, the Shah Alam Stadium, which was built in 1994, was utilised less than 30 times a year, mainly for football matches. Under the new plan, it will be redefined as a dynamic, year-round destination.
MRCB Chairman, Datuk Nasir Mohd Nasir Ab Latif stated “we are humbled to be entrusted with delivering this visionary project for the State of Selangor.
“With our proven track record in urban regeneration and sustainable infrastructure, we are committed to building more than a stadium, we are creating a living, breathing destination for the people of Selangor.”
Since construction in the 1990s, facilities at the Shah Alam Stadium have fallen into a state of disrepair, leading to the need for a complete redevelopment.
Back in 2017, MRCB had through its indirectly-owned subsidiary, Rukun Juang Sdn Bhd, completed the KL Sports City Project comprising the redesign, refurbishment, renovation and/or upgrading of the National Stadium, Axiata Arena, National Aquatic Centre and National Hockey Stadium located at Bukit Jalil.
Image: The revitalisation of the Shah Alam Sports Complex will see the replacement of the 80,000-capacity Shah Alam Stadium. Credit: Shutterstock.
About the author
Nigel Benton
Co-founder/Publisher, Australasian Leisure Management
Born in the English county of Dorset, Nigel Benton is the co-founder and Publisher of Australasian Leisure Management, Australia, New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific’s only magazine for professionals in all areas of the leisure industry and the www.ausleisure.com.au website - the go to news resource for industry leaders and professionals.
With a long-term commitment to communicating all that is best about the leisure industry (aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues) his career has been defined by an ability to develop and implement industry communications.
Starting his career working in heritage visitor attractions and then adventure travel in Africa and the Middle East, an interest in writing about his experiences led to his change of career into magazine journalism and publishing.
In addition to publishing, Nigel speaks on marketing communications at a range of industry events.
He was made a Life Member of the World Leisure and Recreation Association in 2006 and is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (London).
In 2020, he launched the new Asian Leisure Business website.
As of October 2024, he was inducted into the Australian Fitness Awards Roll of Honour at the 2024 AUSactive National Awards.
Among a range of published works and features, his comments on a Blog (blogspot) from 2007 to 2011, when this website went live in its current form, may be interesting to reflect back on.
His philosophy on life is to be kind to all and to indulge those that you love.
His passions include family, Newcastle United and motorcycles (especially British ones) as well, until February 2025 when she left us, caring for a little pug named Stella.
Click here to connect with him via LinkedIn.
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