KUCHING: As international teams settle in for the World Aquatics Championships, Tunisia’s national coach, Ameur Ben Rekaya, singled out local swimming coach, Voon Yong Hui, for his tireless two-week effort in ensuring a seamless experience – from lodging to lanes.
Ben Rekaya, a veteran coach with nearly four decades of international experience, described the support from Coach Voon as “invaluable”, especially for his young team preparing to make their debut at a major global championship.
“For two weeks, he worked very hard to give the best for our team – hotel, transport, and of course, the swimming pool. I think it’s a good ambience here.
“Everything was well-prepared. We are very thankful,” said Ben Rekaya, who brought a youthful Tunisian squad aged between 19 and 20 for their first long-course world championship.
Tunisia is among several countries currently training in Kuching ahead of the prestigious competition, and Ben Rekaya believes this rare opportunity will give his swimmers the exposure they need to grow on the world stage.
“This is only my second time in Malaysia. The first was in Kuala Lumpur back in 2010 for the Youth Olympics preparation.
“Now, I’m here with a new generation. It took us two days to travel here. It was not easy, but worth it,” he added.
Tunisian swimmer, Mohamed Yassine Ben Abbes, also expressed appreciation.
“Thanks to everybody who welcomed us here, especially Voon who organised this trip – the hotel, facility, gym sessions, physio – and thanks to the people here,” he said.
Meanwhile, Irish Olympian, Shane Ryan, commended the facilities, saying Kuching has offered not just world-class infrastructure but also the ideal environment for pre-race preparation.
“The facilities are great. Nice 50-metre pool. The water is really nice – I don’t like the water being too cold, and every time you get in, it’s refreshing,” said Ryan, a backstroke specialist and freestyle sprinter from the Irish national team.
As a sprinter, pool temperature is critical, and Ryan noted that the environment in Kuching has allowed him and his teammates to focus, recover, and sharpen up ahead of the championship.
“The town is really nice. It’s quick and easy to get in and out, and we’ve had access to a good gym as well, which is great. We’re not gyming too much right now because we’re leading into the swim meet, but everything’s been great,” he added.
Santiago Veiga, Technical Director for swimming and open water with the Spanish team, also praised Kuching’s warm hospitality and well-organised setup.
“Perfect, perfect. It looks like we are very welcome here, and everyone at the hotel and in the facilities is trying to help us. So, very, very, very nice place to be,” said Veiga, who hails from Madrid.
For Veiga, the experience has gone beyond logistical ease – it’s been a genuine expression of warmth from the local community.
“If I have the chance, I will come back. I would like to see more in detail, to do some tourism and visits.
“But unfortunately, we have very few days – maybe just a little time to walk around the town,” he said.
Coach Voon, adviser to the Power Aquatics Swimming Club (PASC), has played a central role in facilitating training arrangements for international teams in Kuching.
He has been instrumental in coordinating logistics and ensuring access to top-tier facilities at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre and Sarawak State Youth and Sports Complex.
