KUALA LUMPUR: Development on the new Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam (KSSA) project began today, signaling the start of a new era for the economic, cultural and social prospects of Selangor's capital city.
The demolition of the old Shah Alam Stadium is now underway after the developer was recently granted approval for the works by the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA).
The development of a new stadium and its outlying facilities is regarded as a necessary step and a more economically-viable one compared to renovating the old structure.
When fully completed in 2029, the KSSA's centrepiece will be an ultra modern stadium with state-of-the-art facilities such as a covered, transparent roof, ample retail spaces, a vast concourse, temperature-regulated seats for the comfort of fans as well as separate walkways and entrances for home and away fans for greater security.
This will be complemented by key infrastructure such as a hotel, transport terminal as well as Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) connection.
An indoor theatre, capable of seating up to 10,000 people, is also set to be a new hub for fans of culture and performance arts.
The development of the KSSA, which will involve three phases, is set to further spur Selangor's economic development as well as its aim of creating an all-inclusive space for all segments of the commmunity in the state.
The first phase, once completed in 2026, will see the stadium ready for use, together with the parking plaza, transport terminal as well as the LRT3 link, which would offer the public an array of transportation choices.
These facilities would be up and running, even as works on phase two, involving the development of youth and sports wings, indoor theatre and recreational continue, with a targeted completion date of 2028.
The KSSA will also see emphasis places on ecological-friendly and sustainable locales such as a bioswale park, which will serve as a water catchment area and mitigate flooding problems in the area.
The KSSA's use of renewable energy and other green technology will also put it in good stead to achieve the goal of making Shah Alam a low-carbon city by 2030.
Meanwhile, Selangor Menteri Besar Incorporated (MBI) Group Chief Executive Officer, Saipolyazan M Yusop, today visited the project site to observe the development works.
"I have instructed the project team and contractor to ensure that aspects such as noise, dust, traffic and others are constantly monitored.
"This is to ensure that any disruption to residents are kept to a minimum," he said in a posting on Facebook.