The Ariffin Stage Stadium is expected to be upgraded this October.

BETONG, Sept. 25: The renovation of the current Ariffin Stadium is expected to be completed by October this year.

Sarawak Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said that among the major works that have been and are being carried out include grass mounting, dressing room renovation as well as audience seating improvement.

According to him, security aspects were also taken into consideration to ensure that the stadium can accommodate large numbers of spectators more safely and comfortably.

"Now we have modifications for the delivery area and so on including chairs and other facilities.

"The question is how we can keep people out and in safe because when the stadium is full, there are many needs in terms of emergencies and so on that we have to take into account", he said when met during Sarawakku Sayang (SKS) program Betong here today.

He said that the security aspect should comply with requirements and standards set by the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) and Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM).

He said the improvements were not only aimed at meeting the needs of football matches, but also ensuring that all stadium facilities are in a conducive and safe condition for use.

"We don't want anything to happen, people having to climb the fence and stuff. It's not safe.

"So, these improvements will be implemented in phases and we also conduct security audits so that the stadium can be used with a higher level of security", he said. - TVS