ASAJAYA: The next Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah Asajaya Unity Cup football tournament is set to make history as it will feature night matches, thanks to the completion of the mini-Olympic-grade Sambir Stadium.
Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah confirmed this development, highlighting the installation of floodlights around the stadium as a significant feature.
“Our ministry has agreed to upgrade the football field with floodlights, allowing us to host evening matches, including the possibility of holding the final at night. This is a rare occurrence, unprecedented in the Samarahan area, and will mark a historic event.”
Abdul Karim made these remarks at the closing ceremony of the 56th edition of the Asajaya Unity Cup held at the Kampung Sambir football field here on Sunday (April 21).
The Sambir Mini Stadium is part of the Sambir Village Expansion Scheme, a joint project undertaken by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Integrated Samarahan Development Agency (ISDA), with an allocated budget of approximately RM14mil, including the installation of floodlights.
Regarding the village expansion scheme, Abdul Karim mentioned that it is currently in the early stages, with piling work underway.
“The piling work is nearing completion, and the next phase involves infrastructure development, followed by the construction of houses for the residents of Sambir. This initiative aims to prevent migration from the village and promote community cohesion,” he explained.
He also expressed confidence that lots for the first phase of the project would be allocated to eligible recipients by next year.
The ceremony was attended by Asajaya district officer Rais Ahmat; deputy Samarahan Division Resident, Anuar Daan; as well as heads of government departments and community leaders.
Organised by Sambir Bistari Football Club in collaboration with Lea Sports Center as a sponsor, the Asajaya Unity Cup is the oldest tournament in Sarawak, with 50 teams participating in the latest edition.
