In a momentous gathering at the ‘Majlis Ramah Tamah Lembaga Amanah Kebajikan Melayu Miri’ on April 15, 2024, the esteemed figures of Sarawak, led by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, converged to reveal a comprehensive vision for the transformation of Miri. Among the dignitaries gracing the occasion were Sarawak’s Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, alongside prominent officials and leaders from various sectors.
Revitalising Miri’s Oil and Gas Sector
Premier Sarawak commenced the proceedings by shedding light on the resurgence of foreign investment interest in Miri’s oil and gas industry. With stalwarts like Shell Malaysia, PTTEP, Mubadala, and PETROS redirecting their investments toward Miri, the Premier envisioned a revitalisation of the region’s economic landscape.
Noteworthy among these developments is the positive indication of oil discovery by state-owned Petros and Sarawak-based Petra Energy Berhad, currently engaged in onshore drilling activities at Block SK433 in Miri Division, covering an area of 3,100 square kilometres. This milestone not only promises to bolster Sarawak’s revenue streams but also heralds a new era of prosperity for the region.
Empowering Miri’s Energy Infrastructure
Recognising the pivotal role of robust energy infrastructure in driving industrial growth, the Premier announced Petros’ ambitious undertaking — the construction of a 500 MW power plant in Miri. This landmark project is poised to enhance the region’s power capacity, thereby attracting further investments that hinge on reliable electricity supply. In addition, electricity generated from this plant will be distributed to the Limbang Division to meet energy needs.
Moreover, the Premier unveiled plans for the construction of a deep-sea port with a depth of 12 metres in Miri, strategically positioned to meet the burgeoning needs of various industries in the northern part of Sarawak. With an initial allocation of RM300 million approved by the state government, this port project holds the promise of catalysing economic growth and fostering connectivity within the region.
Infrastructure Development and Connectivity Enhancement
In a bid to improve regional connectivity and unlock the tourism potential of Miri’s hinterland, Premier Sarawak outlined plans for the construction of key road networks. Among these initiatives is the proposed road from Marudi to Long Terawan, extending to Mulu National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Scheduled to commence in 2025, this infrastructure endeavour aims to significantly reduce travel time, facilitate transportation, and bolster accessibility to these scenic locales.
Furthermore, the Premier emphasised the importance of basic infrastructure development in the Niah area of Miri, a move poised to enhance the city’s appeal as a tourist destination. With plans underway for the construction of a convention centre in Miri—a project slated to commence in 2025— the city is poised to emerge as a premier venue for conferences and events, further augmenting its allure on the global stage.
Cultural Preservation and Tourism Promotion
Highlighting Miri’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari underscored the significance of Niah Caves—a site steeped in archaeological and cultural significance as a site of Paleolithic and Neolithic human settlement dating back over 40,000 years. With a submission sent to UNESCO for the declaration of Niah Caves as a World Heritage Site, the Premier expressed optimism about the region’s tourism potential.
This sentiment was echoed by Women and Child Development Deputy Minister Datuk Rosey Yunus, who emphasised the economic impact of such recognition, foreseeing a surge in tourist arrivals and heightened domestic interest in the historical and heritage site. As of April 2024, Niah National Park is currently in the final phase of selection, whereby the final decision will be made in New Delhi, India, this coming July.
Furthermore, plans for the construction of the Piasau Bridge, set to connect Piasau to Miri Marina, promise to elevate Miri’s profile as an iconic destination for tourists. While nameless for now, the bridge is to be an iconic cable-stayed bridge, mirroring the allure of renowned landmarks like the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge.
A Unified Vision for Progress
As Sarawak embarks on this transformative journey, the Premier’s vision for Miri’s future is one of inclusivity, sustainability, and prosperity. With stakeholders from across sectors rallying behind these initiatives, Miri stands poised to emerge as a beacon of progress in Sarawak. As each project takes shape, the city’s transformation into a vibrant hub of commerce, culture, and tourism draws nearer, signalling a new dawn of opportunity for Sarawak and its inhabitants.
With anticipation building and momentum gathering, Miri’s evolution into a modern metropolis would redefine the region’s narrative and inspire generations to come.
