Singapore wants to turn itself into a vibrant sports hub. The Ministry of Community Development and Sports will conduct two feasibility studies in 2002, to determine what is needed to make it happen.

One of the options, is to redevelop Singapore's 29 year old National Stadium into a multi-purpose sports hub; including sports and entertainment facilities, to attract events and visitors all year round.

The Minister for Community Development and Sports, Abdullah Tarmugi says 'The study, to be completed in October, will recommend the viable events that can be staged, the facilities to be built and their locations. It will assess the overall commercial viability of the sports hub and its socio-economic impact on Singapore.'

Seven international consortiums have been shortlisted to conduct the study, one of which will be appointed next month.

A second study by the Singapore government, will decide whether Singapore should bid to host the Commonwealth games in 2010. It has been staged only once before in Asia, by Malaysia in 1998. A Commonwealth Games Village, a world class stadium, a hockey arena and a light rail system linking to Kuala Lumpur were all built as a result.

Singapore's tourism industry would receive a huge boost if it hosts the event. A decision will be made by the end of the year.