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KUCHING – Sarawak’s plans to build a velodrome for track cycling events will take approximately two to three years to be completed.
State sports minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said as such, the velodrome cannot be ready on time for the 2024 Malaysian Games (Sukma 2024) which will be hosted by the state.
“Sukma is just a year away…there’s no way we can get the velodrome ready for track racing.
“(However) we are not going to drop other cycling events.
“Cycling comprises road race, mountain bike and BMX…these three events will still be there, but we might include sprints too,” he told a press conference at the state assembly sitting here, today.
Earlier during his winding-up speech for his ministry, Karim said Sarawak is proposing for Sukma 2024 to be held from August 17 to 24.
He said to share the excitement for Sukma 2024 among fellow Sarawakians in various parts of Sarawak, eight divisions – namely Kuching, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Betong, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu and Miri – have been identified and proposed to host the 32 sports.
“This is after taking into consideration the venues and facilities, as well as the accommodation, logistics, transportation and the support from the local community for certain chosen sports.
“Indirectly, this will boost the local economy with the spillover of tourist receipts,” he added. – Bernama, May 23, 2023
