By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, Sept 6: The long-awaited Miri Public Swimming Pool is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2025, with plans to open to the public by the second quarter of the year.
Speaking during a recent visit to the pool site, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, shared updates on the progress of the project, addressing public concerns about the delays.
“We are happy to report that the materials have arrived, and the contractors will begin work on Monday,” said Ting.
The fabrication work will be done on-site, with the pool set to be completed by January 9 next year if everything goes as planned.
At the same time, Ting also acknowledged the frustration the public has faced over the delays.
“On behalf of the government, I would like to apologise to the people of Miri. This project has been delayed for over two years, and I understand how disappointed everyone must feel.
“However, I am pleased to inform you that everything is now in place, and the contractors are confident that they can meet the new deadline.
“Once completed, our people will have a safe and modern facility to enjoy, rain or shine,” he added.
In addition to the main pool, Ting also discussed the issues with the pool’s filtration system, which had caused the water to turn green.
“This is a second project, and it involves both State and federal funding. The Sarawak government has allocated RM500,000, and the federal government has matched that amount to make a total of RM1 million for the filtration system upgrade,” he said.
However, the project requires federal approval before it can proceed.
“We are waiting for the federal government’s response, and the ministry will officially follow up on the matter. The Miri City Council is ready, and the engineers have already completed the necessary documentation. We are hopeful that once the approval is granted, the work can start immediately,” Ting assured. — DayakDaily
