Memorable Miri

Miri in northeast Sarawak is well known as the epicentre of Malaysia’s lucrative oil industry. With a population of over 300,000 and rising, Miri is a booming international city but one that retains distinctive elements of the various local cultures and that of the Chinese people who settled here many years ago. Northeastern Sarawak is home to 19 of Sarawak’s 27 ethnic groups. Its cultural diversity includes Chinese, Malays, Indians, Ibans, Melanaus, Bisayas, Orang Ulu (mostly Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit,, and Lun Bawang), and Bidayuhs as well as a sizeable community of oil workers who come from all parts of the world. 

 

The city is also a gateway to eco-adventures in national parks such as Mount Mulu, Lambir Hills, and Niah Caves as well as remote communities like Bario and Ba ‘Kelalan. However, Miri isn’t just a transit hub for these destinations, as there is much to see and do in this coastal city.

 

In addition to a vibrant nightlife and being a shopper’s delight, Miri has several tourist attractions to visit. Canada Hill, where the ‘Grand Old Lady’ is situated, is also the site of Malaysia’s first commercial oil well, spudded in 1910. There is an interactive oil museum here that will entertain children, plus good views of the city from the museum’s rear verandah.