Shah alam: The rebranding of the Darul Ehsan Aquatic Centre to Selangor Aquatics signifies the Selangor state government's ongoing commitment to investing in public assets that offer enduring benefits to its citizens. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari emphasized that this initiative is not solely about introducing a new identity for a sports facility but represents the state's dedication to maintaining high-quality public facilities that will serve future generations.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the upgraded aquatic centre now boasts modern amenities that cater to the training needs of athletes, and the hosting of national and international tournaments while serving as a safe recreational space for the community. The upgrades include renovated swimming pool facilities, improved mechanical and pump systems, enhanced safety features, updated landscaping, and various support facilities to ensure efficient operations that meet current standards.
Amirudin highlighted the timely nature of these improvements as Selangor prepares to host the Malaysian Games (SUKMA) and Para SUKMA 2026, beginning on August 15. The aquatic events, starting with water polo on August 12, mark the final phase of preparations, signifying Selangor's readiness to welcome athletes from across the nation.
In addition, Selangor Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi revealed that the RM42 million upgrade, which started in October last year and completed in June, involved not just physical enhancements but also the integration of new technologies like underwater cameras and advanced timing systems. With a capacity for 4,000 people, the facility now stands as a leading hub for aquatic sports in the state, surpassing the aquatic centre in Bukit Jalil in technological advancement.
Mohd Najwan also noted that Selangor Aquatics will open to the public after the Para SUKMA event in October, with entry and rental rates yet to be finalized in collaboration with Darul Ehsan Facilities Management Sdn. Bhd. Assuring that rates will remain affordable, he mentioned plans to equip the centre with FandB services, health facilities, a gymnasium, a swimming training centre, and a scuba centre.
Regarding the allocation for hosting SUKMA 2026, Mohd Najwan confirmed that the Selangor government has managed the preparations within a budget of under RM50 million, ensuring a seamless event that will create lasting memories for participating athletes.