A ceremonial opening was held in Zhezkazgan for the new Zhiger Physical Culture and Sports Complex. The multifunctional facility stands as a prominent example of Kazakhmys’ social responsibility and marks a significant step in the development of Ulytau region’s sports infrastructure.

The project was implemented under a memorandum of cooperation between Kazakhmys Corporation LLP and the Ulytau regional Governor’s Office, with support from Bank RBK. The total cost of the project was KZT 8.5 bln.

Zhiger Physical Culture and Sports Complex is a three-story building covering 7,816 m², comprising five functional blocks. Its innovative architectural design ensures accessibility and convenience for visitors of all ages and abilities.

The complex offers a wide range of sports activities suitable for various age groups and skill levels. The training halls are equipped with modern facilities for different types of workouts. The complex includes a spacious gym with state-of-the-art equipment, comfortable changing rooms, showers and restrooms.

For the first time in Zhezkazgan, the complex features a 25-meter swimming pool, suitable for children and beginner swimmers. A 1,200 m² multi-purpose sports hall accommodates team sports, equipped with an electronic scoreboard, basketball hoops, sports equipment and seating for 320 spectators. A 350 m² gymnastics hall features mirrors, mats, ropes and specialized apparatus for artistic and sports gymnastics.

Olympic champion Dmitry Balandin shared his impressions: «I thank the Ulytau regional authorities and Kazakhmys Corporation for opening this sports complex. I currently coach the national team, which includes athletes from across the country. Unfortunately, there are no representatives from Ulytau yet, but I hope that in the future you will join the national team and represent Kazakhstan internationally. Every child has talent and it is important to create conditions to help them develop».

The second floor houses a table tennis hall, built to international standards and a boxing hall equipped with a professional ring, punching bags, climbing walls as well as strength-training equipment.

At the opening, Ulytau regional Governor Dastan Ryspekov emphasized that the new complex would promote mass sports participation and encourage as many children and teenagers as possible to engage in physical activity.

Nurakhmet Nuriyev, Chairman of the Board of Kazakhmys Corporation LLP, noted that this is the third major project in Ulytau launched by the company in early 2025: «In January, the newly reconstructed Akbota Kindergarten in Satpaev opened, followed by the country’s largest chess academy, and now Zhiger Physical Culture and Sports Complex. Many more openings are planned. By the end of the year, we expect to complete another 5–6 facilities. I wish us all great success. May our region continue to grow and prosper and may its residents achieve great accomplishments and bring recognition to our region».

Zhiger Physical Culture and Sports Complex is among the most modern sports complexes in Kazakhstan. Its opening represents a major advancement in Zhezkazgan’s sports infrastructure and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. The complex will host national and international competitions, enhancing the city’s sporting reputation at the national level. Construction was carried out by Tansu Construction, with the project completed in record time.

Kazakhmys Corporation believes that the opening of Zhiger Physical Culture and Sports Complex will serve as a powerful catalyst for the comprehensive development of the Ulytau region, improve the quality of life for its residents, and attract both youth and adults to sports and wellness activities.