SHAH ALAM, April 15 — The refurbishment of the Darul Ehsan Aquatic Centre (PADE) is ahead of schedule as preparations continue for the Malaysian Games (SUKMA) 2026, said state executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi.
He said the project is on track to be completed by mid-June, as reported by The Star.
“On March 1, the target was to reach 61 per cent completion, but the progress has now hit 65 per cent,” he told the local English daily.
Najwan said the refurbishment includes upgrades to competition pools and restrooms and the addition of new spectator seats.
“The upgrade involves refurbishing the full range of facilities to enhance comfort and the overall user experience,” he said, adding that the facility hasn’t undergone major refurbishment since it was opened.
“This refurbishment is also to ensure the centre complies with international standards and can host competitions at various levels.”
PADE is among the key venues for SUKMA 2026, which Selangor will host from August 15 to 24, with Para SUKMA from September 5 to 14.
Earlier this year, Najwan said the Subang Shooting Range and PADE are two major venues undergoing extensive upgrades ahead of the biennial games.
He said the state government would upgrade existing facilities rather than build new ones, citing cost efficiency and practicality.
Selangor has allocated RM250 million to host SUKMA, which features 474 events across 37 sports and will be held across 52 venues in nine districts throughout Selangor, except for track cycling, which will take place at the National Velodrome in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan.
