Miri: DAP Sarawak expresses deep concern over the prolonged delay in the renovation of the Miri Public Swimming Pool, which has remained closed since 25 March 2022. The facility, the only public swimming pool in Miri, has been idle for nearly three years, causing significant disruption to residents’ access to sports and recreational facilities.
DAP Sarawak Secretary Alan Ling Sie Kiong has called on the Sarawak government to provide a clear explanation regarding the stagnation of the project.
“All funds were approved, all tenders were completed, yet the contractor walked away halfway. Who approved the contractor? Who was responsible for supervising the works? And why has there been no public accountability to this day? The people deserve answers,” Ling said.
The renovation plan was divided into three components, all of which had already secured funding and completed the tender process, and were meant to proceed simultaneously, including:
- Replacement of the water filtration system (RM500,000, state-funded) – the tender had been issued, evaluation was scheduled for completion by September 2024, with a six-month construction period targeting completion in early 2025.
- Upgrades to infrastructure and safety facilities (RM500,000, federal-funded) – this included the relocation of utilities, installation of safety warnings and signage, and demolition of old structures, all to be centrally coordinated by the state government.
- Expansion and roofing of the Outdoor Learning Area (COLA) and environmental improvements (RM5.064 million, fully funded)
“The prolonged closure is more than a construction delay – it reflects a failure of administration and oversight,” Ling emphasised.
He added that, as the only public swimming pool in Miri, its prolonged closure has severely affected residents’ daily lives and their right to health and recreation.
“Since 2022, members of the public who wish to swim have been forced to rely on expensive hotel pools, effectively excluding low-income families, students, and senior citizens,” he said.
Ling warned that this delay undermines public confidence not only in this project but in the government’s ability to execute larger development projects.
“If the government cannot complete and reopen a single public swimming pool as planned, how can the people trust it with more significant initiatives?” he asked.
Ling pointed out that Miri Public Swimming Pool, which opened in 1985, had never undergone a comprehensive overhaul in nearly four decades and has long been an important public sports and recreational facility for Miri residents.
“However, since its closure on 25 March 2022 for renovation, the pool was originally promised to reopen in early 2025. Now, in 2026, it remains shuttered, with no visible construction progress.
“Where have the government’s promises gone? Where is the planned project? The people have waited three years, only to be met with silence,” he said.
