MIRI: The ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard 2026 recognition received by Miri strengthens its position as a regional tourism destination, reflecting the concerted efforts of various parties to safeguard the city's cleanliness, public safety and environmental sustainability.

Miri City Council (MCC) said in a statement that Miri is among 12 local authorities in Malaysia to receive the recognition under the ASEAN Tourism Standards at the national-level awards ceremony organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) in Putrajaya.

The recognition reflects MCC's continued commitment, together with government agencies, tourism industry players, the private sector and the local community, to developing Miri as a clean, safe, sustainable and visitor-friendly city.

The assessment covered several key aspects, including urban cleanliness, environmental management, public safety, tourism facilities, infrastructure, public health and sustainable tourism practices.

According to MCC, the achievement was the result of multi-agency collaboration through inter-departmental coordination, information sharing and assessment sessions to ensure the ASEAN tourism standards were met.

MCC also expressed its appreciation to all agencies and stakeholders involved, including the Sarawak Tourism Board, the Public Works Department, the Drainage and Irrigation Department, the Natural Resources and Environment Board, the Miri Divisional Health Department, the Royal Malaysia Police, the Sarawak Forestry Corporation, as well as representatives of the hospitality and tourism industries.

The council stressed that the success was a collective achievement of all Miri residents, including business operators, tourism service providers, hoteliers, community organisations, volunteers and the public.

Community cooperation in keeping public areas clean, managing waste properly, protecting the environment and providing quality services to visitors is vital to ensuring Miri remains attractive and pleasant to visit.

As the gateway to northern Sarawak and a destination close to world-class natural attractions such as Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, both recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Miri continues to play an important role in the state's tourism industry.

The recognition is expected to strengthen Miri's image as a tourism and business events destination, while supporting efforts to enhance the visitor experience and boost sustainable tourism development.

MCC reaffirmed its commitment to continue improving urban cleanliness, environmental sustainability, public amenities, infrastructure maintenance, accessibility and service quality for the well-being of residents and the comfort of visitors. -UKASnews

Translator: Uilson Ng