MIRI is celebrating its 18th anniversary as a city today. It became a city on May 20, 2005.
Mayor Adam Yii, reflecting on Miri’s 18 years as a city, credits the foresight and efforts of local leaders in transforming the town into a city.
“For the past 18 years or so, the local leaders, with firm support from the government and contributions from the local council, government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the local communities, have together laid down the foundation and nurtured Miri City towards a Greater Miri covering city governance and developments,” he said.
“We have shared the common vision of transforming Miri City into a Green, Smart and Most Liveable Resort City with emphasis on sustainable developments and protection of our environment,” he added.
“As Miri celebrates its 18th anniversary, the focus is on establishing international links for tourism promotion and making the city a preferred destination.”
Miri, the second largest urban centre in Sarawak, is a coastal city situated 496 miles northeast of the state.
It is the site of the country’s first oil well, drilled on Canada Hill in 1910. This event marked the birth of the petroleum industry and subsequent development that transformed Miri into a modern and thriving city.
Miri City Council, under the Ministry of Local Government and Housing Sarawak, is the main organisation in managing the development of the city. Its jurisdiction area is about 5,205.43 sq. km.
The jurisdiction of the council expanded in 2015 with the inclusion of the Bario sub-district, covering an area of 5,205.43 square kilometres.
Miri has now become a cosmopolitan city with a population exceeding 400,000, consisting of 27 ethnic communities including Ibans, Melanaus, Bidayuhs, Kayans, Kenyahs, Penans, Kelabits, Malays and Chinese, creating a diverse and culturally rich heritage.
Miri has emerged as a popular destination for visitors seeking enjoyment, culinary delights and shopping.
The city boasts numerous shopping malls, a wide range of gourmet options and entertainment outlets that operate late into the night.
Beyond its urban attractions, Miri is a nature lover’s paradise, offering renowned national parks for adventurous exploration and scientific research.
The Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Niah National Park are among the prominent destinations in Miri Division.
Miri is also home to Curtin University of Technology Malaysia and other educational institutions, solidifying its reputation as an educational hub.
In addition to its oil industry, the city serves as a development centre for various sectors, including shipbuilding, oil palm plantations, tourism-related industries, and light industry enterprises.
Recent notable additions such as Marina ParkCity and Miri Times Square have further propelled the city’s economic growth.
Meanwhile, in conjunction with Miri’s 18th anniversary as a city, the city council will be having its open day today at the ground floor of the City Hall in Marina Bay.
The open day celebration will start at 9 am with a flag raising ceremony.
The programmes today will proceed with various performances including singing and cultural performances by various ethnic groups.
Mayor Adam Yii saaid various food and beverage booths would be available during the open day.
Members of the public are welcome to attend the event.
Meanwhile, the Miri Food Festival, organised in conjunction with the Miri City Day 18th anniversary, kicked off last night (May 19). The event is being held at the Boulevard Miri car park.
“On the evening of May 20, we will host a reception dinner at Pullman Hotel Miri which will be attended by foreign dignitaries,” said Yii.
Tonight, again in conjunction with the Miri City Day 18th anniversary, Miri Division’s 17th Gawai Dinner celebration will be held. at Meritz Hotel Miri, The highlight of the night will be a beauty pageant.
To mark the end of the Miri City Day 18th anniversary celebration, a dinner will be held at Eastwood Golf and Country Club on May 28. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will be the guest of honour at the dinner.
