SINGAPORE — Two decades after it first opened in Woodlands, the Singapore Sports School is set to relocate to the Kallang Alive precinct as part of the government’s broader vision to enhance sports facilities in Singapore. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced this during his National Day Rally speech on Sunday (Aug 18), highlighting the importance of integrating young athletes with professional ones to foster greater synergy.

The Sports School, which has produced national athletes like badminton star Loh Kean Yew and sprinter Shanti Pereira, will now offer its students the opportunity to train alongside senior athletes in Kallang. The move aligns with Singapore’s ambition to strengthen its reputation as a premier sports hub.

New Facilities and Enhanced Infrastructure

As part of the masterplan, new state-of-the-art sports science and medicine facilities will be developed, along with national training centers for key sports, all located under one roof. These improvements will help both student and senior athletes hone their skills in a more cohesive environment. Mr. Wong also revealed that the Singapore Indoor Stadium will be replaced by a new 18,000-seat arena, capable of hosting top-tier sporting events.

“This will allow our athletes to compete on home soil, with more opportunities for Singaporeans to come together and cheer them on,” he said, underscoring the national pride that sports bring.

Kallang for Everyone

Mr. Wong emphasized that Kallang is not only for elite athletes but also for the broader public. The main road through the Sports Hub will be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly community boulevard, lined with sports facilities and activities for people of all ages and abilities.

“Kallang will be a vibrant destination for families to enjoy sporting events, participate in activities, or simply spend quality time together,” he said. The Prime Minister stressed that regardless of one’s skill level, there will be something for everyone to enjoy in the new Kallang precinct.

Expanding Singapore’s Sporting Culture

The Kallang Alive project was first unveiled in 2019, and recent developments such as the Kallang Football Hub and Kallang Tennis Centre have already begun attracting attention. The Football Hub serves as the national training center for Singapore’s “Unleash the Roar!” program, while the Tennis Centre is the first indoor facility in Singapore ready for international tournaments.

With SportSG taking over the management of the Sports Hub in 2022, plans have been in motion to make the area more accessible to all Singaporeans, building on the vibrant local sports scene.

Reflecting on his time at the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, Mr. Wong acknowledged the early challenges faced by the Sports Hub, but noted that the government is now positioned to “unlock its full potential” and make Kallang come alive.

Celebrating Singapore’s Athletes

During his speech, Mr. Wong took a moment to praise Singapore’s athletes, including those who recently competed in the Paris Olympics. Among them was kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder, who made history by winning Singapore’s first Olympic medal in eight years. Maeder, at just 17, is the youngest Singaporean to ever earn an Olympic medal.

“We are proud of Max and all our athletes,” said Mr. Wong, adding that Maeder’s dedication and skill are a testament to Singapore’s sporting potential.

He also acknowledged Shanti Pereira, Singapore’s fastest woman athlete, who had to contend with an injury before the Games. Despite the setback, Pereira remained positive, and Mr. Wong expressed confidence in her future success.

Sports, the Prime Minister said, are about more than just winning medals. They are about “grit, determination, and pushing beyond one’s limits,” values that all Singaporeans can embrace.

Looking Ahead: The Paralympics and More

With the Paralympics just around the corner, Mr. Wong emphasized the nation’s pride in its para-athletes, who have overcome significant challenges to excel in their respective sports.

More initiatives will be rolled out to support the development of Singapore’s sporting talent, including through the President’s Challenge. This program will bring together the community and government to nurture athletes from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that opportunities in sports are accessible to all.

“More young Singaporeans are pursuing sports seriously and excelling at the highest levels,” Mr. Wong noted, highlighting how changing mindsets have encouraged parents and children alike to consider sports as a viable career path. With more role models and strong government support, the future of Singapore sports looks brighter than ever.