Introducing Miri
Unlike catty Kuching and swanlike Sibu, Miri is sadly lacking in animal analogies, perhaps because it’s just too casually urban for any to spring to mind. After all, the rapid growth of this former fishing village was founded on industry and services, particularly after the discovery of oil here in 1910. Timber, palm oil, pepper, rubber, and coconut oil have all also played a part in the economy, barely leaving nature a look-in. Surprisingly for a Shell town, however, Miri is actually an engaging place to spend a few days, and most travellers find it preferable to Sibu or Bintulu as a short-term stopover.
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Miri was granted city status in 2005, the first nonstate capital to be accorded the privilege. Locals are justifiably proud of their home town’s achievements, but it’s a sensitive subject elsewhere in Malayisa – Penang residents in particular were outraged when their state capital Georgetown, still technically a town, was overlooked. You can expect a lively debate if you bring the issue up at the pub!
Today Miri is investing a lot in tourism, and while most visitors still use the city primarily as a transport hub and base for the nearby national parks, there’s actually plenty to keep you entertained here, including parks and beaches outside town, an abundance of shops, good restaurants, several nightlife areas and friendly people. Don’t be afraid to hang around and explore here before heading off on an excursion or to spend some time and unwind when you return.
Last updated: Mar 24, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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Re: 10 days in Borneo (Kuching area) is it worth it... what to do?
by jonfiler 13 September 2011
Hi there.... I just showed my class the video I took of the billions of bats exiting out of Deer Cave in Mulu National Park. I wish…
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RE: SE Asia itinerary - so much to do and too little time?
by tungurahua 06 September 2011
I think your best bet may be to do, say two-three weeks in Borneo and then get a plane into somewhere in IndoChina and slowly work your…
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RE: SE Asia itinerary - so much to do and too little time?
by tungurahua 06 September 2011
From Singapore there are plenty of good low-cost airline routes (or mainline carriers if you want). As I mentioned, AirAsia and Tiger…








