KJH draws 350,000 visitors, highlighting Miri’s tourism potential

MIRI: The overwhelming response to the Karnival Jom Heboh (KJH) Segulai Sejalai Sarawak 2026, which attracted more than 350,000 visitors over three nights, demonstrates the city’s strong potential as a destination for major tourism and entertainment events.

Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said large-scale events such as KJH not only provided entertainment for the community but also generated wider economic benefits, particularly for the tourism, hospitality and services sectors.

“We should continue encouraging major events like this. Apart from providing entertainment to the people in the northern region, there are many other benefits, especially for the tourism industry and those involved in the hospitality sector,” he said.

Abdul Karim was speaking during the closing of KJH Segulai Sejalai Sarawak 2026 at Miri Boulevard on Sunday (Sept 27) night.

Also present was his deputy, Datuk Sebastian Ting.

The minister said Miri’s strategic location and proximity to Brunei provided an added advantage in attracting visitors from across the border.

Karim (centre) joins artistes and event organisers on stage during the closing of Karnival Jom Heboh Segulai Sejalai Sarawak 2026. Also present is his deputy, Datuk Sebastian Ting (right).

“I believe there are many Bruneians who have joined us tonight,” he said, highlighting the potential for major events to strengthen cross-border tourism between Sarawak and Brunei.

Abdul Karim also noted the strong presence of families at the event, with many parents bringing their children to enjoy the activities and entertainment together.

He said family-oriented events could contribute towards strengthening family bonds by providing opportunities for parents and children to spend time together and participate in activities outside their daily routines.

The strong turnout, he said, was also a positive indication of the public’s appetite for major events in northern Sarawak.

“If we see such a good response from the people, I believe that in the coming years, if there is an opportunity, we can work together with Media Prima to organise Jom Heboh again in the northern region,” he said.

The three-night carnival brought a major line-up of Malaysian entertainment acts to Miri, including K.O.I, Nabila Razali, Nadeera, Baby Shima, Floor 88, Man Bai, Lan Solo and Rahmad Mega.

The programme also featured Sarawakian artistes Mary Grace and Fieya Julia, adding a local dimension to the national entertainment showcase.

The final night culminated in a major concert, drawing a large crowd to Miri Boulevard for performances by leading artistes.

The attendance of more than 350,000 visitors throughout the three-night event underscored the ability of Miri to attract large crowds through major entertainment and tourism-driven programmes.

Beyond the entertainment value, such events can create spill-over benefits for hotels, restaurants, transport operators, retailers and other businesses, while increasing visitor activity within the city.

For Miri, Abdul Karim said, the success of KJH further strengthened the case for bringing more major events to the northern region.

The event also demonstrated the value of collaboration between the state government, industry players, event organisers and media organisations in creating a vibrant events calendar and strengthening Sarawak’s tourism ecosystem.

With its strategic location, established tourism infrastructure and access to the Brunei market, Miri remains well positioned to host major regional events that can attract visitors, stimulate local businesses and further enhance the city’s profile as a tourism and events destination.