BINTULU: The Naim Bintulu Paragon Street Mall has been proposed as a prime location to host the Muay Thai competition at the 21st Malaysian Games (SUKMA) scheduled for next year.
Tourism, Creative Industries, and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah highlighted that the selection of the mall was due to its ample multi-storey layout which can hold a significant number of attendees.
“There is undeniable potential here. Initially, a different, enclosed venue was proposed, but now the new suggestion is to utilise a shopping complex.
“The reason being that the nature of the sport demands a substantial crowd of spectators and supporters, and the structure of the multi-level shopping complex is conducive to large gatherings,” he told reporters after participating in the People’s Leaders Programme at Kampung Kuala Segan yesterday afternoon.
However, he noted that the final decision on the proposed venue requires endorsement from the SUKMA Centre. He assured that his ministry would provide support if the proposal is accepted and sanctioned by the concerned authorities.
Previously, the Sarawak State Muay Thai Association (PMNS) had recommended the Bintulu Division as the preferred site for the Muay Thai events in the forthcoming 21st SUKMA Games.
