KUCHING: Sarawak's RM241mil performing arts centre in Petra Jaya is targeting a June 2027 completion deadline ahead of the SEA Games in September next year.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said completing the project on time would add vibrancy to the state's preparations for the 2027 games.
"Just nice, I'm hoping that it can be completed by June because we're going to have the SEA Games in September," Abdul Karim said following a site inspection on Friday (Oct 2).
The original completion date of November this year was revised after contractor delays, resulting in three extensions of time granted to adjust the project timeline.
Abdul Karim expressed optimism that the deadline would be met, noting that progress had accelerated following slow months in July and August.
"With the team that we have now and the commitment I can see from consultants, JKR, ministries and contractors, I think we should be able to get it completed on time," he added.
Work on the former state legislative assembly building is currently 46% complete, putting it 1% ahead of the revised schedule.
The project involves converting the main building into a 600-seater concert hall, turning the ceremonial Lapau building into a fine dining restaurant, and upgrading the adjacent boulevard.
Architects preserved key heritage features of the 50-year-old structure, including its gold glass roof tiles and interior ceiling wood panelling.
"The roofing is still the golden glass tile," Abdul Karim said, rejecting an alternative spandex metal proposal to preserve the building's aesthetic value and historical significance.
He noted that retaining original elements honored the legacy of former chief minister Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud, who heavily influenced the building's original design.
"It's difficult and more costly when it is an old building because we have to adapt to the structure, but preservation was important," he explained.
Completed in 1976 as part of Wisma Bapa Malaysia, the building housed the state legislature until May 2009, when operations relocated to a new riverfront complex.
