KSSA marks 'seismic shift' in Selangor's urban transformation

New Straits Times

16-05-2025

SHAH ALAM: The development of the Shah Alam Sports Complex (KSSA) marks a seismic shift in Selangor's urban transformation, setting new gold standards in design, construction, and the management of public spaces.
Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, said that as part of the state's future agenda, Selangor's development blueprint would adopt sustainable solutions that integrate biodiversity with infrastructure, creating a model for future initiatives.
"KSSA sets the stage for a new era of sustainable urban development," he said.
Tengku Amir Shah was speaking at the handover ceremony of the Letter of Acceptance for the Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam (KSSA) development between Menteri Besar Selangor Inc (MBI Selangor) and Lembaran Prospek Sdn Bhd (LPSB), a subsidiary of MRCB Land Sdn Bhd and Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB).
Also present were Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, Selangor State Secretary Datuk Dr Ahmad Fadzli Ahmad Tajuddin, MBI Selangor group chief executive officer Datuk Saipolyazan M. Yusop, and MRCB group managing director Datuk Imran Salim.
Tengku Amir Shah said the development includes KSSA Park, a sustainable community hub integrated into Shah Alam's flood mitigation plan. The park features ecological restoration, nature-based solutions, and innovative flood management, blending biodiversity with urban development. It offers recreational, educational, and cultural spaces, promoting inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and community engagement for all generations.
"It will have a state-of-the-art, fully automated underground flood mitigation system beneath the complex, including a four-hectare retention pond to manage stormwater and alleviate flooding in Shah Alam's most vulnerable zones."
He said the integration of KSSA Park into the Section 13 Shah Alam flood mitigation plan, led by the Selangor Irrigation and Drainage Department, is a key strategic element in stormwater management, ecological restoration, urban regeneration, and sustainable water practices.
"The use of nature-based solutions as a strategic approach to managing flood risks also offers lasting environmental and economic benefits."
He added that these proven, cost-effective methods support current Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives and promote responsible land use.
"Going beyond conventional infrastructure upgrades, this initiative reflects a forward-looking commitment to improving Selangor's long-term liveability and quality of life," he said.
Tengku Amir Shah said KSSA Park would feature universal access and sensory-friendly areas, including playgrounds thoughtfully designed to welcome children with autism.
By integrating sports with ecological learning, the park will host multi-generational programmes that encourage deeper connections between communities and their natural surroundings, making it a place of learning, recreation, and togetherness, he said.
"As part of a wider urban renewal effort, KSSA Park will breathe new life into the city's public spaces by revitalising its iconic skate park and introducing vibrant platforms for art, music, and performance."
These features are designed to capture the dynamism of the city while facilitating creative expression and social engagement within a natural and welcoming environment.
Sustainability is woven throughout the park's design. Constructed wetlands – engineered to mirror natural systems – will support biodiversity and water management while offering scenic, functional green spaces. Using biocentric design principles, the park will employ renewable materials, closed-loop systems, and native plantings to minimise its environmental footprint and create biodiverse urban habitats.
KSSA Park will stand as a model for sustainable city living, blending innovation, ecology, and community spirit in one living, breathing space.
"I envision KSSA standing proudly among the world's most iconic destinations – alongside places like Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London, the Melbourne Sports Precinct, or Marina Bay in Singapore. Not just as a stadium, but a living, breathing tapestry of voices, colours, and dreams."
"KSSA Park will be a vibrant community hub that blends cultural celebration with ecological restoration. Rooted in nature-based design, the park will highlight Selangor's rich natural heritage while serving as a dynamic gathering space for people of all ages.