Miri Moves Forward, Emerges As Northern Sarawak’s Economic Hub
MIRI: The rapid transformation of Miri City from an “oil town” into an economic hub in northern Sarawak demonstrates the success of the Sarawak Government’s inclusive and forward-looking strategic planning.
Sarawak Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, said the development achieved is not merely physical in nature, but also encompasses the strengthening of new economic sectors, including tourism, education and modern services.
“Miri is no longer just a stopover town; it has grown into the Northern Sarawak Regional Economic Hub as a result of careful planning that integrates the strengths of traditional sectors with emerging ones.
“Miri is now emerging as a key driver of regional development, in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which emphasises innovation- and data-driven growth,” he said.
He made these remarks while delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of the Sarawakku Sayang Programme (SKS) Miri Division 2026, officiated by Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, at Miri Stadium on Saturday.
He added that the organisation of the programme, based on the concept of ‘Togetherness’ and the principle of ‘No One Left Behind’, reflects the government’s commitment to engaging with the people and ensuring that the benefits of development are enjoyed inclusively.
“This programme is clear proof of the leadership’s determination to go to the ground and engage directly with the people, in line with the ‘No One Left Behind’ principle,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, various high-impact projects continue to be implemented to strengthen Miri’s position as an economic and logistics hub, including the Kuala Baram Miri Port deepening project valued at over RM200 million.
He explained that the project has the potential to boost the maritime industry, attract foreign investment and create thousands of high-skilled job opportunities for the local population.
In addition, the development of infrastructure networks such as the Pan Borneo Highway and the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road (SSLR) project serves as a catalyst for regional integration and reduced logistics costs, while expanding economic access, particularly in rural areas.
He also noted that the Miri City Free Smart Bus service has had a positive impact on public mobility, with passenger numbers exceeding 1.28 million as of March this year.
On future development, Lee also highlighted the Kenyalang Smart City project and collaborations with international institutions, which will elevate Miri as a centre of excellence for education and research in the region.
He emphasised that all these initiatives reflect the Sarawak Government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring balanced and inclusive development, not only advancing the region but also safeguarding the well-being of its people.
“We are not merely developing the region, but ensuring that prosperity reaches the people so they too can enjoy the benefits of development,” he said. -UKASnews
