Deputy Minister: Efforts continue to strengthen Miri’s tourism appeal

MIRI (April 5): Positioning Miri as a key tourism destination remains a priority, with continued efforts to enhance well-established attractions, said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, Chiew Choon Man.

He highlighted one such attraction, the ‘Galeri dan Muzium Kek Lapis Sarawak Siti Payung’, which he visited recently.

Describing the gallery as an interactive exhibition, Chiew said it offers visitors a behind-the-scenes experience of a kek lapis bakery, showcasing the origins, legacy and traditional equipment used in making the iconic Sarawak layered cake.

“Kek lapis is a must-try dessert from Sarawak, and Miri is well known for it. The gallery highlights the heritage and craftsmanship behind this popular kuih,” he said in a statement.

During the visit, he also tried his hand at making kek lapis, describing the process as detailed and delicate, involving the careful layering of colourful cake to create a product that is both a visually appealing and delicious.

Visitors, he added, can participate in the activity and bring home their own handmade kek lapis as a unique souvenir.

“The experience is engaging and memorable, and certainly worth trying for visitors,” he said, noting that the gallery’s location near the airport makes it a convenient stop for tourists.

Apart from the baking experience, Chiew said the gallery also features a section where visitors can try on traditional Sarawak attire and take photographs.

He commended the initiative by the private sector, particularly the operators of Kek Lapis Siti Payung, for introducing a creative tourism product that enriches Miri’s tourism landscape.

“I encourage more businesses to develop unique tourism experiences for both local and international visitors. The ministry will continue to support branding and promotional efforts for such initiatives,” he added.