KUCHING: A sum of RM6.5 million has been allocated for the Borneo Cricket Ground facilities, which are now 98 per cent complete, in preparation for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place from January 18 to 25.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the facilities are generally ready with construction taking only five months since September last year. 

The cricket field itself had already been completed before the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024.

"As you can see, everything appears to be on schedule, and I am very confident that when the time comes for the tournament, everything will be ready.

"I have great confidence in the team entrusted with organising the event, especially in ensuring the readiness of the facilities.

"Of course, there are a few adjustments that need to be made and some cleaning work to be done, but I am confident that when the time comes, this venue will be fully prepared," he said.

He spoke at a press conference following his visit to the Borneo Cricket Ground in Petra Jaya on Tuesday.

Dato Sri Abdul Karim added that the construction of the facilities had been guided by the ICC to ensure that all necessary requirements were met, as world-class events must adhere to strict standards.

Currently, the only remaining step is to obtain the occupation permit which will then officially mark the readiness for use.

In a related development, he also announced that the site for Sarawak's velodrome will be located near the Borneo Cricket Ground.

"There is another facility that I need to look at within this sports complex, which is the velodrome. It will be built not far from here.

"The Sarawak Government has more or less given its approval, and the consultant has almost been identified. The project is expected to be completed in the next two or three years," he said.

Also present were Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operation), Datu Hii Chang Kee, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Morshidi Fredrick, along with other dignitaries. -UKASnews