NST: Futuristic, sustainable and inclusive
EMERGING as the crown jewel of urban revitalisation, the ambitious Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam (KSSA) project stands not merely as a structure of concrete and steel, but as a beacon of hope and renewal for the city's inhabitants.
Promising to redefine the landscape of both sports and community, this visionary undertaking represents a pivotal moment in Selangor's trajectory, propelling its people into a future brimming with possibilities.
The development of the KSSA, which began yesterday, carries with it noble aspirations: spur the local economy, elevate the city's stature as a sporting, entertainment and cultural hub, as well as provide a work-life balance for the community by way of a myriad of facilities.
The jewel in the crown of the KSSA project will be its futuristic stadium, which will give legendary football club Selangor FC the home it deserves, complete with state-of-the-art features such as a covered, transparent roof, temperature-regulated seats, wide-open concourses and world-class safety features, including separate entrances for home and away fans.
The stadium's most spectacular feature, however, is the multi-use retractable pitch, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. When pulled out, it would enable the stadium to host other events inside such as performances, eliminating concerns over the pitch's condition afterwards.
The approximately 70-hectare KSSA area will also contain a theatre complex, capable of accommodating up to 10,000 people and boosting Shah Alam and Selangor's status as a beacon of culture and the arts. A bevy of accompanying shopping outlets will provide retail therapy for visitors and boost the local economy at the same time.
Accessibility and comfort is also given priority, with a Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) connection, a transport hub, ample parking and wide pedestrian avenues in the plans, all against the backdrop of a sprawling wetland recreational park, underscoring the balance between development and preservation of nature.
Its goal of being an inclusive venue means that the KSSA will never be bereft of activity, catering to visitors from all segments of society, including sports fans, youths as well as families.
Upon completion in 2029, the KSSA looks set to become a unique gateway to Shah Alam as a destination like no other in the country, which caters to both sports enthusiasts and the wider community, as well as become a new icon for the heart of Selangor.
