Kuantan: The Pahang government has secured a RM7 million allocation from the federal government to enhance the infrastructure of Darul Makmur Stadium, particularly focusing on upgrading floodlights, electrical wiring, and seating arrangements. State Communications and Multimedia, Youth, Sports and Non-Governmental Organisations Committee chairman Fadzli Mohamad Kamal announced that the tender process for this project will be overseen by the Public Works Department (JKR).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadzli expressed gratitude towards the Ministry of Youth and Sports, acknowledging that the efforts spanning over three years have finally resulted in the approval of the funds necessary for the stadium's upgrades. This announcement came during the launch of the inaugural Pahang People's League Al-Sultan Abdullah Cup at the stadium, an event graced by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. The Sultan also witnessed a friendly match where the Pahang Selection defeated the Selangor Selection with a 2-1 victory before an audience of approximately 30,000 spectators.
Several dignitaries were present at the event, including Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, Deputy Minister of Economy Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah, and other state executive council members. Fadzli emphasized the state government's commitment to further improving stadium facilities and strengthening the Pahang People's League to boost football development within the state. The focus will now shift to enhancing other facilities to elevate the stadium's standing.
In regards to the Pahang People's League Al-Sultan Abdullah Cup, Fadzli mentioned that the state government had coordinated with district football associations to ensure each district fields at least 12 teams at the district-level competition. The district champions will advance to the state-level tournament to compete for the prestigious Al-Sultan Abdullah Cup and its associated cash prizes.
Additionally, Fadzli outlined plans to introduce football leagues for various youth age groups across all districts, aligning with the Sultan of Pahang's aspirations to bolster grassroots football development. The district-level league is expected to commence in two weeks, with concurrent competitions across two districts each week, while the start date for the Under-19 league is still being finalized.