KUCHING: In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is crucial for Miri to establish its own tourism development authority to boost its tourism sector, especially in the post-pandemic era.
Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Sarawak Chapter chairman John Teo pointed out that a significant portion of foreign tourists visiting the oil town are from Brunei, making it essential to ensure their continued interest and return visits.
“So, how are we going to ensure that they keep returning instead of diverting to other destinations?”
Teo suggested the creation of a tourism development authority, similar to Langkawi Development Authority (Lada), to manage all aspects of tourism in Miri, including tourist attractions and interesting places.
He stressed the importance of having knowledgeable industry experts running the authority, fostering good relationships with both government and private sectors, and engaging with locals and foreigners.
“Apart from taking care of the places of interest, maintaining and upgrading various facilities, the authority needs to have new ideas on how to further promote Miri, with new attractions and activities, to ensure tourists will keep returning to the city,” he said.
Teo pointed out that several places in Miri urgently require refurbishment and rejuvenation, such as the Grand Old Lady, Canada Hill, and Miri City Fan Recreation Park.
To facilitate improvements, he suggested involving private sectors in managing these locations, allowing them to inject funds for upgrades, technology advancements, and additional services like entertainment and food and beverage (F&B) offerings.
“Miri also needs a convention centre to hold more big functions and international events, to boost the tourism industry and contribute to the economic growth.”
In exploring further opportunities, he mentioned the potential for a gastronomy and cultural centre, an entertainment hub, and the development of fishing and diving activities.
Teo expressed concern about declining tourist numbers in Miri in recent years, with arrivals dropping from 2.6 million in 2017 to 2.2 million in 2018, and further decreasing to two million in 2019 before the Covid-19 pandemic hit.
“Thus, it is necessary to act promptly to spur the tourism industry in Miri,” he urged.
