INDOOR NATIONAL STADIUM

Mr S. Chandra Das asked the Minister for Social Affairs whether there are any definite plans to build a modern "Indoor National Stadium" in Singapore in the very near future and, if so, what are the details of the proposed Indoor Stadium.

Dr Ahmad Mattar: Mr Speaker, Sir, I am pleased to inform the Member for Chong Boon that my Ministry supports the proposal by the Singapore Sports Council to build a modern international indoor stadium at Kallang Park, near to the National Stadium. Estimated to cost $45 million, the Indoor Stadium now proposed will have a capacity of 15,000 to cater to sports activities, conventions, family entertainment shows, exhibitions, cultural and other events.

The arena will accommodate two basketball and eight badminton courts which can also be used for all other indoor sports. The Stadium will conform to specifications of international standards which include unobstructed views from the galleries and air-conditioning. There will be special lighting for different sports and at different illumination levels, public address system with controls to different areas, matrix scoreboards, adequate changing rooms, showers and toilets for players and spectators. We will also have supporting facilities for staff and members of the media.

A feasibility study conducted by the Singapore Sports Council indicates that the proposed international Indoor Stadium should be well utilized. The better facility might encourage sports and other organizations to organize more international, regional and national games competitions, good family type entertainment and cultural performances.

Mr S. Chandra Das: Sir, I would like to thank the Minister for the good news and I am sure all Singaporeans welcome the move to have an Indoor Stadium. I would just like to ask when this fact will become a reality.

Dr Ahmad Mattar: As soon as it is possible.