Info for visitors

The state of Sarawak stretches for some 750 km along the north east coastline of Borneo, with habitats ranging from high hills and mountainous forest to Lowland, Kerangas & Peat swamp forest, from rice fields, to wetland and coastal regions, each with its own specialized birds. Throughout this majestic landscape, BirdLife International has designated 22 Important Bird Areas (IBAs), the highest number for any state in Malaysia. Incredibly, Sarawak hosts more than 47 endemic species and most of these are fairly common in the mountains and lowlands. Rare and elusive endemic species are also regularly sighted and photographed by nature enthusiasts, making the state a tremendously exciting experience for the dedicated birdwatcher. All birding destinations are easily accessible with good transportation network and accommodation facilities are available in the national parks.

Canada Hill is a limestone ridge overlooking the town and offering excellent views of Miri and the surrounding area. The historical Oil Well No. 1, known as the “Grand Old Lady”, is situated on top of Canada Hill. It was here that oil was first struck by Sarawak Shell in 1910. Nowadays the site also houses a very well designed and interesting Petroleum Museum, which traces the history and technological development of the oil and gas industries in Malaysia.

Come face to face with more than 1,000 Estuarine Crocodile (Crocodylus Porosus) and Malayan Gharial (Tomistoma Schlegelii) in a 22 acre landscaped setting with natural breeding enclosures and man-made sanctuary ponds. The crocodile farm is also home to other exotic animals from tropical countries including Southern Cassowary, Python, Binturong, Sun Bears, Gibbon, Porcupines and a band of cheerful monkeys. Miri Crocodile Farm is the first and largest Crocodile Farm in the northern region of Sarawak, and is registered with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES, Registration No. A-MY-509).

Miri City Fan (Jln Merpati/Jln Kipas) is an award-winning urban park complex comprising a variety of theme gardens, including a Botanical Garden and an Islamic Garden. It is also home to Miri City Library, a Public Swimming Pool, and a large Amphitheatre where concerts are frequently held. The City Fan is popular with locals for strolling, jogging or just chilling out.

Located 3km from City Centre, Taman Awam Miri (Miri Public Park) is a huge family park with children’s playground, botanical garden, soft adventure activities and jogging trails. The park is dotted with stone carvings and sculpture, overlooked by a towering wooden walkway leading to an observation platform.

The Miri Handicraft Centre on Jln Brooke is a fascinating showcase of the ethnic arts and crafts of northern Sarawak. Stalls are run by the individual producers, and craftspeople can often be viewed at work here. Items on sale include Penan mats and basketry, Orang Ulu beadwork and woodcarvings, and a variety of textiles from around the state. Cultural performances are occasionally held at weekends. Open 9am – 6pm daily.

Tamu Muhibbah, opposite the central bus station, is a colourful native market where you’ll find a range of exotic fruits and vegetables, handicrafts and produce from upriver areas, including fragrant Bario rice. Good photo opportunities.

The informal Bawah Payung Market (Under the Umbrella Makeshift market) sets up at weekends outside the shophouses across the road, selling all manner of cheap goods.

The Sikh Temple on Jln Kubu (10 mins walk from city centre) is one of three in Sarawak. It is attractively located in the shade of a 100-year-old angsana tree.

Tua Pek Kong Temple is a dedicated to the deity most beloved by overseas Chinese. According to local legend, work started in the temple in 1913, in order to give thanks to the deity for helping to end a mysterious epidemic. The temple is situated right next to the Miri Fish Market, where the local catch is landed early every morning. An enormous variety of fresh fish and seafood is sold here.

The San Ching Tian temple is the largest Taoist temple in Southeast Asia. The superb red roof, elegant lotus design motif and the delightful wind chimes make this a very impressive and atmospheric place to visit.

Eating out is the Malaysian national pastime, and the good folk of Miri are no exception. The choices on offer are unlimited and food outlets range from fine dining, exotic foreign restaurants and bistros to roadside food stalls. The multicultural nature of the city brings together a world of flavours. Check out TripAdvisor for reviews and details of all the restaurant options in Miri.