Ting backs new public swimming pool for Miri

MIRI: Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I (Tourism), Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew has voiced his support for the construction of a new public swimming pool in Miri, citing the city’s growing population and increased demand for swimming facilities.

Speaking to the media during a site visit to the Miri Public Swimming Pool on today (Sept 10), he acknowledged the need for another pool to accommodate the rising number of swimmers.

“Ideally, there should be another public swimming pool. It’s time for us to have another one because swimming is very healthy and good for the community. We also see great success in swimming and diving at the Sukma Games, so it’s a positive step,” he said.

He also pointed out that many parents are keen to enrol their children in swimming classes, but the high costs at private pools make it difficult.

“A lot of parents want to send their children for swimming classes, but most of these are held at private pools, which can be very expensive. We hope to provide more affordable options with another public facility,” he added.

He confirmed that a proposal for the new pool would be sent to the relevant authorities, and efforts would be made to ensure its realisation.

“We will quickly have the current upgrading works completed and then look for another place for a new swimming pool.”

He was met during his site visit to the current Miri Public Swimming Pool.

Ting’s visit to the existing public pool was to monitor the progress of ongoing upgrades.

He expressed satisfaction with the pace of the work, particularly with the arrival of key materials.

“I’m very happy that the materials, as promised, have already reached Bintulu and are now being transported to Miri. This includes about 27 tonnes of pipes from Kuala Lumpur. More shipments are expected, which will allow for faster progress,” Ting explained.

He further mentioned that if there are no delays, the roofing project is expected to be completed by Jan 9, 2025.

A second project involving a pumping system is still awaiting federal approval, with RM1 million allocated for the project—half from the federal government and half from the state.

“Our goal is to complete this second project by the second quarter of 2025,” he said, expressing optimism about the continued improvements to Miri’s public swimming facilities.

The upgrading efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance public amenities as the city continues to grow.