JOHOR BARU: The Defence Ministry will conduct a thorough investigation to determine if the combat diving pool at Kem Iskandar in Mersing meets the specifications of the 21st Special Forces Group (GGK).

Minister Datuk Khaled Nordin, responding to inquiries regarding allegations of non-compliance with pool specifications and incomplete tiling works due to leakage issues, stated that the ministry will investigate.

It is learnt that officers from the Prime Minister Department's Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) inspected the pool today.

Among issues that were highlighted were a leakage in the pool's walls due to an unresolved water source, from a rivulet or small spring.

When asked about the possibility of the demolition and reconstruction of the pool in light of the allegations, Khaled declined to offer further comment, stating, "Let us conduct our investigations first."

Khaled said to safeguard Mindef's interest, thorough inspections and monitoring will be conducted, including on future and existing projects.

He said the ministry will work closely with the works ministry to ensure development projects meant for Mindef proceeds smoothly, according to specifications and are delivered without any hiccups or delays.

He added the works ministry is tasked to monitor the technical aspects of the projects, to ensure the contractors meets its delivery deadline," he said, after the Johor-leg Madani Aidilfitri Celebration 2024 held at Padang Begonia at Angsana Mall Johor Bahru, here, today.

He said that it is standard government protocol for the works ministry to oversee technical aspects, while Mindef is responsible for monitoring projects designated for its own ministry.

Khaled was commenting on the delay in handing over the combat diving pool construction at Kem Iskandar in Mersing.

Earlier His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, decreed for the responsible parties overseeing pool construction at Kem Iskandar, to clarify the reasons behind the delay.

In response, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said thorough checks were needed before deciding if the contractors will be penalised for the delay.

State works department guaranteed that the RM23.6 million pool meant for the GGK commandos' training purposes will be completed by June this year.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1039770/combat-diving-pool-leakage-allegations-kem-iskandar-will-be-investigated