SHAH ALAM, Aug 8 — The rebranding and comprehensive upgrading of the Darul Ehsan Aquatic Centre reflects Selangor’s commitment to invest in quality public sports facilities that will benefit the people in the long-term, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
The initiative was not merely about introducing the new name and face of a sports facility, but represented the state government’s commitment to continuously invest in public assets that will serve the people over the long run.
“The Darul Ehsan Aquatic Centre, which has undergone comprehensive upgrading works, now stands as a modern facility that meets the needs of athlete training and the hosting of national and international standard competitions, while also providing a safe and conducive recreational space for the community.
“The upgrading works involved improvements to the swimming pool facilities; mechanical and pumping system; safety features; landscaping, and various supporting facilities.
“These improvements will ensure that the centre operates more efficiently and sustainably, while meeting current standards,” he said in his speech during the centre’s rebranding ceremony today.
The state government has rebranded the aquatic centre as part of Selangor’s preparations to host the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) and Para SUKMA.
The upgrading project, which began in October last year, included improvements to the swimming pools, public facilities, landscaping, pump systems, and safety features to provide a more comfortable and safer environment for athletes and visitors.
The facility will host the aquatic events, with the water polo competition scheduled to begin on August 12, ahead of the official opening of SUKMA on Saturday (August 15).
Hoping it is properly maintained
Amirudin added that the investment is particularly significant as Selangor is set to host the biennial national multi-sport event in the coming days.
“The hosting of these games is not merely about competing for medals, but an opportunity to showcase Selangor’s capabilities as a state with high quality infrastructure, an efficient management system, and the determination to successfully organise a national-level sporting event,” he said.
The Menteri Besar noted that the water polo competition, which will kick off the aquatic events on Wednesday (August 12), marked the final phase of preparations and demonstrated Selangor’s readiness to welcome athletes and contingents from across the country.
Amirudin emphasised that the long-term legacy of the investment should go beyond having a more attractive building or modern facilities.
Quality public facilities should be viewed as a strategic investment in human capital and public well-being, especially amid global economic uncertainties, geopolitical developments, supply chain challenges, and the rising cost of living.
“The true legacy is the emergence of more young people who make sports part of their way of life, the development of world-class athletes, and the building of a healthier, more disciplined, and united society.
“Investment in quality public facilities is not merely an expenditure, but a strategic investment in human capital and the wellbeing of the people,” he said.
Sports can also unite communities regardless of background while generating economic spillovers for tourism, hospitality, small businesses, and other supporting industries.
“Every upgraded facility therefore brings returns that go far beyond its physical value,” Amirudin said.
The state government will continue to ensure that public facilities owned by the people are properly maintained so they remain relevant, sustainable, and beneficial to future generations.
The rebranding ceremony was organised by Darul Ehsan Facilities Management Sdn Bhd (DEFM) and officiated by the Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah.
Also present were state executive councillor for youth, sports, and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi, Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporation) or MBI chief executive officer Dato’ Saipolyazan M Yusop, DEFM board members and its chief executive officer Rusman Md Lizah, as well as representatives from relevant agencies.
