THE upgraded Bukit Lima Swimming Pool in Sibu is expected to serve as a catalyst for the development of aquatic sports and major community facilities in Sarawak’s central zone.
Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) acting chief executive officer Khairul Nizam Morshidi said the upgrade, under the Retrofitting and Covered Outdoor Learning Areas project, ensured that it could be used throughout the year.
“The main objective of the project was to provide a swimming and diving training centre while also offering more comfortable and safer facilities,” he said after a handover ceremony of the facility to Sibu Municipal Council (SMC).
Khairul Nizam said the transfer of management of the pool from SSC to the local council was to ensure the facility was well-maintained in the long-term.
“Good management is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of users.
“With SMC’s involvement, the pool can be utilised by state athletes and the local community,” he added.
Meanwhile, SMC chairman Clarence Ting said the project began on Nov 15, 2023 and was originally scheduled for completion in May 2024, but several issues delayed its opening.
He added that, for the time being, only the Sarawak Amateur Swimming Association was using the swimming pool for daily training.
Ting said SMC would carry out maintenance work, including replacing tiles in the children’s pool, upgrading changing rooms and toilets, as well as other improvements before opening it to the public.
“SMC is committed to ensuring that the Bukit Lima Swimming Pool is in the best condition and ready for use in the near future to support healthy lifestyles and grassroots sports development,” he said.
