By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, Sept 23: Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew has called for a new central police station (CPS) in Miri, citing the current building’s age and limitations.
The existing Miri Central Police Station, built in 1953 during the British colonial era, is now 71 years old.
Ting, who is also Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, emphasised the importance of replacing the outdated structure, which continues to serve the city’s growing population.
“This police station was built 71 years ago, and Miri, being Sarawak’s second city, deserves a modern police station,” said Ting during a site visit to inspect improvement works at the station today.
Ting noted that the Sarawak government intends to collaborate with the federal government on plans for the new police station, as police stations fall under federal jurisdiction.
“For us, we will convey the message that Miri needs a new central police station. We hope to include it in the upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK 13),” he added.
The current station, located in the heart of Miri’s old town along Kingsway Road, has been in use for decades and has undergone several renovations.
The building is a single-story structure from the 1950s, originally without air conditioning. Over the years, upgrades have been made, including air conditioning, police radio systems, and network enhancements.
Despite these improvements, the station’s age is becoming a significant concern as it faces structural challenges, such as leakage problems during heavy rain.
Ting also mentioned that the station is currently undergoing roof repairs, gutter upgrades, and ceiling repainting under the Rural Transformation Project (RTP), which he oversees.
The improvement works, with a budget of RM150,000, began in early September and are expected to be completed within six months.
The project is already 60 per cent completed.
Ting reiterated that while these upgrades are necessary, they are only temporary fixes, and a new facility is urgently needed.
He hopes that discussions with federal authorities will lead to the inclusion of the new police station in future development plans for Miri, ensuring better service and facilities for the city’s residents. — DayakDaily
