Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) is calling for a swift decision regarding the drainage system upgrade and turf replacement project at Hang Jebat Stadium to prevent unnecessary delays. Its deputy minister Adam Adli Abd Halim, stressed that the government does not want the project to be stalled or classified as a “sick project,” which could result in the RM500,000 grant being withdrawn.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the deputy minister emphasized the importance of utilizing the RM500,000 federal grant that has been allocated to the state government. The budget is earmarked for upgrading the drainage system and replacing the current turf with a finer blade grass variety. This was highlighted by Adam Adli after officiating the Melaka 2025 Rakan Muda Ramadan Programme at the Al Ehsan Mosque, Bukit Baru.

Discussions have already taken place involving the State Department of Youth and Sports and relevant stakeholders. Adam Adli urged all parties involved to reach a resolution swiftly. He also suggested that the turf replacement project team consider alternative grass varieties used in other stadiums, such as those in Terengganu, to achieve the best outcome within budget limits.

Adam Adli proposed that if the initially recommended turf is too expensive, the project could either prioritize fixing the drainage system first or select a different turf type that meets approved standards. He mentioned that hybrid turf, like those used at the Mokhtar Dahari National Football Academy in Gambang or the Petaling Jaya City Council (MPPJ) Stadium, might be a more cost-effective option.