Ahmad Lai answering questions from reporters at his Raya open house.
MIRI: The construction of a stadium in Bekenu, which was approved by Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg recently, is among the most awaited projects by the local youths.
Sibuti MP Ahmad Lai Bujang thanked the state government especially Abang Johari who approved an allocation of RM3 million for recreational facilities in Bekenu.
“The youths here are very happy with Abang Johari’s special gift because they have been waiting for their own stadium all this while,” he told reporters during his Aidilfitri open house here recently.
Ahmad Lai said the stadium would be equipped with a football field, race track and stage that would benefit the youths in organising sports and social activities.
“The project is expected to commence next year on a five-acre site not far from the Subis District Office and the Rural Transformation Centre (RTC),” he said.
Commenting further, he said the late Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem had approved RM2.4 million to buy the land for the stadium.
“Our site is already there but there is no allocation to develop the stadium, but Abang Johari heard our application and approved RM3 million,” he explained.
Ahmad Lai said the efforts to develop Sibuti would continue to be spearheaded by the Bekenu and Lambir state assemblypersons.
“We have plans to centralise development in the Sibuti area somewhere in Bekenu and it can be an administrative and tourism focus area,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Bekenu assemblywoman Rosey Yunus also thanked Abang Johari for approving the RM3 million allocation to build the stadium.
“This project shows Abang Johari listens to the needs of the people and Bekenu residents certainly appreciate this special ‘gift’ from the government,” she added.