The Shah Alam Stadium, once an iconic sports landmark in Malaysia, has now been completely demolished, leaving behind a vast empty space where countless memories were made. This stadium was not only a hub for football fans but also a symbol of pride for the people of Selangor. In this article, we’ll look back at the history, the events that defined it, and what the future holds for this historic site.
The current state of Shah Alam Stadium which has been completely demolished
Facts About Shah Alam Stadium
Location and Capacity
The Shah Alam Stadium was located in the heart of Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. It was the largest stadium in Malaysia when it was first built and had a seating capacity of approximately 80,000. Its strategic location made it easily accessible and a popular venue for major events.
Comparison of Seating Capacity to Other Famous Stadiums
To understand the significance of Shah Alam Stadium’s size, let’s compare it to other famous stadiums worldwide:
- Camp Nou (Barcelona, Spain) – 99,354 seats
- Wembley Stadium (London, UK) – 90,000 seats
- Lusail Stadium (Qatar, West Asia) – 88,966 seats
- Estadio Azteca (Mexico, Mexico City) – 87,523
- Bukit Jalil National Stadium (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) – 87,411 seats
- Old Trafford (Manchester, UK) – 74,310 seats
With 80,000 seats, Shah Alam Stadium was comparable to the capacity of world-renowned stadiums and was larger than Old Trafford, highlighting its status as one of the most significant sports venues in Southeast Asia.
Architectural Design
Designed by Hijjas Kasturi Associates, the stadium featured a unique semi-circular roof that covered two-thirds of the seating area, giving spectators shelter from the elements while maintaining an open-air atmosphere. The stadium was built with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art locker rooms, press boxes, and corporate suites.
Multifunctional Venue
Although primarily known as the home ground of Selangor FA, the stadium was a multifunctional venue that hosted various events such as international football matches, concerts, and community gatherings. It was also a venue for athletics, showcasing its versatile design and capacity to host large-scale events.
History of Shah Alam Stadium
Inception and Construction
The idea for Shah Alam Stadium was conceived in the early 1980s as part of the development of Shah Alam as the new capital of Selangor. Construction began in 1991, and the stadium was officially opened on 16 July 1994 by Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah. The cost of construction was approximately RM 460 million, making it one of the most expensive stadiums in Southeast Asia at the time.
A Symbol of Pride for Selangor
The stadium became the pride of Selangor, symbolizing the state’s ambition and progress. It served as the home ground for Selangor FA, one of the most successful football teams in Malaysian history. Over the years, it witnessed countless football rivalries and became a fortress for the Red Giants.
Renovations and Decline
Despite its iconic status, the stadium faced challenges over the years. Maintenance issues, including leaky roofs and deteriorating facilities, became apparent. The last major renovation was done in 2011, but the stadium continued to age, leading to its eventual closure in 2020.
Historic Events Held at Shah Alam Stadium
Football Tournaments
- 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship – The stadium was one of the key venues for this prestigious tournament, which saw future football legends like Thierry Henry and Michael Owen showcasing their talent.
- Malaysia Cup Finals – As the home ground for Selangor FA, the stadium hosted numerous Malaysia Cup finals, attracting massive crowds and creating unforgettable football memories.
- AFF Championship Matches – The stadium was also a significant venue for regional tournaments, including the AFF Championship, where fierce rivalries between Malaysia and neighbouring countries were played out.
Concerts and Entertainment Events
- Michael Jackson’s HIStory World Tour (1996) – The King of Pop performed to a packed crowd, making it one of the most memorable concerts in Malaysia’s history.
- Linkin Park, Mariah Carey, and Westlife Concerts – The stadium also hosted international artists, drawing fans from across the region.
- National Celebrations and Cultural Events – From Merdeka celebrations to cultural festivals, the stadium served as a gathering place for people of all backgrounds.
Religious and Community Events
The stadium was not just about sports and entertainment; it also served the community by hosting religious gatherings, charity events, and even political rallies. It was a space that united people for various causes.
Future of Shah Alam Stadium
Why Rebuild Stadium Shah Alam?
The decision to rebuild Stadium Shah Alam stemmed from its poor technical condition and frequent flooding issues. The stadium’s once-modern structure had become unsafe, and repair efforts were no longer sufficient. Flooding was particularly problematic because the stadium was partially dug into the ground, making it vulnerable to water damage.
To address these challenges, Selangor state authorities partnered with Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB) in July 2022 to redevelop the stadium. The estimated cost of RM787 million would be fully financed by MRCB, with the company receiving new land for investment in return.
The Vision: A Brand New Stadium Shah Alam
The new Stadium Shah Alam will be a football-specific venue with a capacity of 35,000 to 45,000 spectators. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Populous, the stadium will feature:
- Fully Roofed Design: Offering complete shelter from the weather, enhancing spectator comfort.
- Transparent ETFE Material: The middle part of the roof will use transparent ETFE material, allowing natural light to filter through while maintaining shade and comfort.
- Raised Pitch: To solve flooding issues, the pitch will be elevated to the level of the surrounding ground.
- Sliding Pitch Mechanism: A unique feature allowing the pitch to slide outside, which promotes better turf maintenance and enables multi-functional use of the stadium.
- Cooling System for Stands: Ensuring comfort for spectators, even during hot weather.
- International Event Standards: The stadium will meet international standards, making it capable of hosting major events.
Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam: A Comprehensive Sports Hub
The stadium is just one part of a larger vision – the Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam. The comprehensive redevelopment includes:
- Recreational Park and Youth Sports Facilities: Surrounding the stadium to promote community engagement and youth development.
- New Stadium Malawati: Replacing the existing sports and entertainment hall to offer modern facilities.
- Hotel and Commercial Spaces: Enhancing the area’s appeal as a destination for both sports and leisure.
- Transportation Hub: A new light rail line with a station adjacent to the stadium is expected to open in 2025, improving accessibility and connectivity.
Phased Development Timeline
The project is being implemented in three phases:
- Phase 1 (2025–2026): Construction of the new stadium.
- Phase 2 (2027–2028): Development of the new arena, recreational park, and youth sports facilities.
- Phase 3 (2028–2029): Completion of the transportation hub and hotel.
Demolition of the old stadium began in early 2024 and is expected to conclude by mid-2025, after which construction will commence.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The entire redevelopment project, including the stadium and surrounding complex, is estimated to cost RM3.28 billion. The initiative is expected to:
- Boost Local Economy: Creating jobs during construction and post-completion through increased tourism and commercial activity.
- Revitalize Selangor FC: Offering a world-class venue for the club to host matches and enhance fan experience.
- Community and Youth Engagement: With recreational and sports facilities designed to promote healthy living and youth involvement in sports.
A New Landmark for Malaysia
The new Stadium Shah Alam is poised to become an iconic sports and entertainment hub in Malaysia. It symbolizes not just a modernization of infrastructure but also a renewal of community spirit and sporting excellence. Once completed, it will serve as a testament to Selangor’s commitment to sports development and international event hosting.
As Malaysia anticipates the completion of this world-class stadium, Stadium Shah Alam’s legacy of hosting unforgettable moments will continue, now in a state-of-the-art facility designed for the future.
Conclusion
The Shah Alam Stadium was more than just a sports venue; it was a cultural and historical landmark that witnessed countless memories, emotions, and historic events. Its demolition marks the end of an era, but it also paves the way for a new beginning. As the site undergoes redevelopment, it carries with it the hopes and dreams of a new generation of fans, athletes, and visitors.
The stadium may be gone, but its legacy will live on in the hearts of those who experienced its magic. The future promises to be just as exciting, as a new icon rises to continue the story of Shah Alam Stadium.
Have Memories to Share?
If you have fond memories or stories about Shah Alam Stadium, we’d love to hear them. Feel free to share your experiences and keep the legacy alive.
