KUALA LUMPUR: As the iconic Shah Alam Stadium crumbles to make way for the new Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam (KSSA), netizens have taken to social media to share their fond memories of the beloved venue.
In a viral Facebook post, videos of the stadium's demolition stirred an outpouring of emotions from users, many of whom reflected on their personal connections to the historic landmark.
User Mohd Hilmi Abu Bakar expressed his sadness at watching the stadium being torn down.
"There's still a sense of sadness in my heart watching the process. So many memories. The red and yellow symbolise the pride of Selangor.
"Hopefully, the new stadium will be strong and impressive, InsyaAllah," he said.
Another user, Ben Aragon, admitted that while the stadium holds cherished memories, he understands that it was time for change.
"A stadium full of memories, but it's reached an age where it needs to be replaced. As long as it doesn't collapse on people, causing a nationwide uproar," he said.
User Amuzaru reminisced about attending the stadium's grand opening in 1994.
"I still remember the excitement of being there for the opening ceremony. The energy was unreal, especially when they played Ella's song 'Gemilang,'" he said.
The demolition of the Shah Alam Stadium began in July after being granted approval by the Shah Alam City Council, paving way for the development of the new KSSA project.
Its construction is divided into three phases, with phase one involving the building of a new main stadium, an outdoor sports area, a parking plaza, and the integrated transportation terminal.
This is estimated to be completed by 2026.
The second phase would focus on developing commercial and cultural facilities, including a sports wing, a youth wing, a theatre, retail outlets, and a recreational area. The final phase would add further infrastructure including a hotel.
When fully completed in 2029, KSSA's centrepiece would be an ultra-modern stadium with cutting-edge facilities such as a covered and transparent roof, ample retail spaces, a vast concourse, temperature regulated seats for the comfort of fans.
It would also have separate walkways and entrances for home and away fans for greater security, and will use energy-efficient equipment and technology.