THE state government, through the Penang Stadium and Open Spaces Corporation (PSDKLPP), is currently working on the concept and financing model for the ‘Sports City’ project in Batu Kawan.
State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen emphasised the significance of this preparatory phase before initiating a request for proposal (RFP).
“We do not have any exact date yet on when to call for RFP. So, we will work on the project’s concept and financing model first to ensure that the RFP can attract reputable investors or bidders.
“The Sports City project is supervised and handled by the PSDKLPP, which has held a discussion with related agencies and stakeholders to identify the components to be included in the Sports City project,” Gooi told a press conference when asked about the matter when he visited the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) Sports and Recreational Complex in Jalan Betek, Bukit Mertajam yesterday (Oct 16).
The Sports City project in Batu Kawan was first announced by the former state Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee last year.
Gooi added that the Sports City project, if successfully materialised, can turn Batu Kawan into a sports hub apart from the industrial hub in the area which will stimulate the growth of Penang.
He said, this in turn, will benefit the locals and also attract people from neighbouring states and perhaps from other neighbouring countries as well to come over to participate in the sports event.
Earlier, Gooi was there for the presentation of certificates and medals ceremony to the athletes from the Fitness District who have participated in the 35th Malaysian International Open Masters Athletics Championship in Kuala Lumpur recently.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis