SPORTIZZA Sdn Bhd has been awarded the contract to upgrade, manage, and maintain the Sony Sports and Recreation Complex in Seberang Jaya for the next 30 years.
The company secured the project through an open tender process in 2022, following approval from the Penang Stadium and Open Space Corporation (PSDKLPP).
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow commended the successful awarding of the project and the groundbreaking ceremony, acknowledging the efforts of all parties involved.
“The state government, through the corporation, officially took over this facility from the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) on July 1, 2020.
In 2022, the corporation’s board approved the development proposal for the Sony Sports and Recreation Complex via a Request for Proposal (RFP) to enhance its facilities and ensure proper management and maintenance,” he said.
Among the new facilities to be introduced by Sportizza Sdn Bhd are a synthetic grass football field with floodlights and 200 spectator seats, five futsal courts – including one FIFA-sized and four standard-sized courts – 12 badminton courts, five pickleball courts, as well as locker rooms, a gym, a pro-shop, a surau, toilets, meeting rooms, parking spaces, and other essential amenities.
The futsal and badminton courts will also serve as multipurpose venues for various sports such as netball, volleyball, indoor hockey, dodgeball, tennis, and basketball based on user demand.
The upgrading process is expected to take one year, with all costs fully covered by Sportizza Sdn Bhd.
“This initiative is in line with Theme A of the Penang2030 vision, which focuses on improving liveability and quality of life, particularly by expanding recreational, sports, arts, and cultural facilities.
“This project is part of our administration’s broader strategy to develop Penang into a smart and green state that prioritises family well-being,” Chow said in his speech at the groundbreaking ceremony in Seberang Jaya today.
He expressed optimism that this public-private collaboration would have a positive impact on the local community while strengthening sports development and nurturing future athletes.
“I hope the Penang Stadium and Open Space Corporation will continue its commitment to providing top-notch sports and recreational facilities, benefitting not only the community but also positioning Penang as a leading sports destination at both national and international levels,” he added.
Sportizza managing director and chief executive officer Chiew Chun Yong expressed his gratitude to the Penang government, PSDKLPP, and MBSP for the trust and support for making this a reality.
“Your collaboration has been instrumental in turning this vision into something meaningful for the community.
“This marks a significant milestone for Sportizza and the entire local sports community.
“We are honoured to play our part in this journey, and we are committed to ensuring that these facilities become a hub of excellence for sportsmen,” he said.
Later, Chiew told the media that after being away from Penang for nearly 30 years, he wanted to give back to the state and its community. A former head coach of the Malaysian national futsal team, he expressed his commitment to contributing to the development of local sports and recreational facilities.
Penang Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen congratulated Sportizza on securing the contract to upgrade, manage, and maintain the Sony Sports and Recreation Complex in Seberang Jaya.
“Sportizza is a company with over five years of experience in managing sports facilities, and I am confident in their ability to deliver this project successfully.
“I also hope that Sportizza will carry out the necessary upgrades and introduce new facilities to enhance the complex, providing the public with a modern and more attractive sports environment,” he said.
He further expressed his belief that the PSDKLPP would continue its efforts to develop iconic sports facilities and position Penang as a premier destination for sports and recreation.
Also present were Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen, MBSP mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid, PSDKLPP executive director Rashidah Jalaludin, and Sportizza director Effendy Osman.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi