Kota Kinabalu: Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) Supreme Council Eric Lau has called on the Ministry of Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy to take immediate action to address the deteriorating condition of sports and recreational facilities in Sabah, warning that neglect threatens both public safety and athlete development.
He highlighted the jogging track at the Likas Sports Complex as a key concern, noting that it is riddled with potholes and uneven surfaces that pose risks to users, particularly the elderly and children.
“I have received numerous complaints from regular users, including cases of sprains and injuries caused by the poor condition of the track,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
While acknowledging the ministry’s aspirations to elevate Sabah’s sporting achievements, he stressed that such goals must be supported by proper infrastructure.
“It is difficult to expect our athletes to perform at a high level and bring pride to the State when basic training facilities are not adequately maintained. Quality infrastructure is essential for nurturing talent and encouraging greater public participation in sports,” he added.
Eric urged the ministry to prioritise maintenance and allocate sufficient resources to repair, upgrade and enhance facilities such as the Likas Sports Complex.
“Investing in these facilities is not just about addressing current shortcomings; it is about ensuring the long-term development of our youth and the State’s sporting ecosystem.
“I used to come here for swimming 30 years ago. Three decades later, what I see today is largely the same old structure, with little to no meaningful upgrades,” he said, reflecting on the lack of progress over the years.
He also pointed out that modern, well-maintained facilities could position Sabah as a competitive venue for regional and international sporting events, boosting tourism and contributing positively to the state’s economy.
Eric concluded that timely action would demonstrate the ministry’s commitment to public welfare and the growth of sports in Sabah, while ensuring communities have access to safe and high-quality recreational spaces.
