Miri poised to emerge as northern Sarawak tourism hub, says PH man

MIRI (Feb 22): Miri has held significant potential as a key tourism hub in northern Sarawak, following the declaration of its city status in 2005, and being named ‘a resort city’, said Pakatan Harapan (PH) Sarawak secretary Alan Ling.

He observed that the local residents and industry stakeholders had long placed high hopes on the tourism sector to drive sustainable growth and generate meaningful economic spillover for the community.

“Coordinated efforts among government agencies, industry players and local stakeholders would be vital in unlocking Miri’s full tourism potential.

“With more aggressive promotional strategies and greater emphasis on the uniqueness of its natural attractions as well as the cultural diversity of the local communities, Miri can record significant growth in tourist arrivals.

“I believe that Miri is well-positioned to attract not only foreign visitors, but also domestic travellers from Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah,” he said during a Chinese New Year (CNY) open-house event, hosted by Miri MP Chiew Choon Man at the Eastwood Valley Golf and Country Club here.

Adding on, Ling regarded Chiew’s appointment as the nation’s Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministers as ‘ushering in a new chapter for the city’s tourism industry and strengthening its position as a leading destination in the region’.

“The appointment is both timely and strategic,” said Ling.

“I am confident that his leadership at the federal level will bring renewed focus and direction to Miri’s tourism development.

“Miri needs a fresh boost in the tourism industry, and I am confident our MP has well-structured plans to realise this,” he added.