Miri’s advancement as vibrant, liveable city a collective effort: Dr Sim

MIRI: The journey of this northern city becoming vibrant and liveable is a collective effort that extends beyond the responsibilities of the Miri City Council (MCC), Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said.

“Miri’s mission and vision are to become the most liveable, resort-like city of international standards, all while being nestled in the jungles of Borneo,” the Deputy Premier said during a flag-raising ceremony at the Miri City Council Hall in Marina Park to mark the city’s 19th anniversary, here today.

“We are very proud to be here today. City Day is a reminder that in Sarawak, we have two cities, and Miri is a very important one for our State,” he added.

Dr Sim, who is also the Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak, highlighted the necessity for Mirians to embrace the city’s aspirations.

“Having a resort city and aiming for international standards are great, but it is crucial that Mirians take ownership of this vision. It is their city, and we must achieve this together. It cannot be solely the responsibility of the Miri City Council (MCC).

“This is why we want the MCC to focus more on educating the public about the values and awareness needed. These efforts must go hand in hand with events, food festivals, and music festivals that bring life to the city,” he said.

Reflecting on Miri’s transformation over the years, Sim noted that the city has evolved from a small fishing village into a modern, dynamic urban centre, thanks to the combined efforts of community leaders and major corporations such as Shell, Shin Yang, and Samling.

“If you visit the Netherlands, most cities are not large, but they are high-quality cities. Similarly, places like China and India have many large cities, but not all are considered ‘home’ by their residents,” he noted.

Dr Sim stressed that today’s flag-raising ceremony serves as a reminder to appreciate the contributions of those who have shaped Miri and to recognise the ongoing efforts needed from everyone living in the city.

“Even in Kuching, they are envious of what we have here in Miri,” he added with a smile.

Also present were Deputy Ministers for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Dr  Penguang Manggil and Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee,  Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang, Deputy Mayor Ariffin Mohamad  and acting city secretary Abdul Rahman Taupek.