Gambar kenangan peserta yang terlibat dalam gotong-royong di Medan Saberkas pada 16 Februari lalu This news in Bahasa Melayu is from Utusan Borneo Online   MIRI: Jawatankuasa Pengurusan Medan Saberkas Miri dengan kerjasama Majlis Bandaraya Miri (MBM) dan Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat telah mengadakan program gotong-royong di Pasar Malam Medan Saberkas pada 16 Februari lalu. Pengerusi Ahli Jawatankuasa Medan Saberkas Miri, Abdul Rahman Jawawi berkata, program berkenaan dianjurkan bersempena persediaan menyambut Ramadan 2026 bagi memastikan kawasan pasar malam berada dalam keadaan bersih, selamat dan selesa untuk pengunjung. Menurut beliau, seramai 80 penjaja pasar malam menyertai program tersebut bersama dua pegawai MBM serta empat anggota bomba dari Balai Bomba dan Penyelamat Miri. “Kerjasama ini amat penting bagi memastikan persekitaran Medan Saberkas sentiasa terjaga, sekali gus memberi keselesaan kepada peniaga dan pengunjung sepanjang Ramadan,” katanya. Dengan adanya aktiviti gotong-royong itu, Pasar Malam Medan Saberkas Miri bersedia menjemput orang ramai untuk mendapatkan pelbagai juadah berbuka puasa sempena Ramadan yang bakal tiba. Pasar malam tersebut akan beroperasi setiap hari sepanjang bulan Ramadan bermula jam 1 tengah hari hingga 9 malam. Kemudahan tempat duduk turut disediakan bagi memudahkan pengunjung berbuka puasa sambil menikmati aneka makanan dan minuman yang ditawarkan oleh para penjaja.                                                                                                        Peniaga bergotong-royong membersihkan Medan Saberkas untuk menyambut bulan Ramadan

(Dari kiri) Ariffin, Dennis, Lee, Teo dan tetamu kehormat lain bergambar sebelum menggaul hidangan 'yee sang' sebagai simnolik perasmian majlis. This news in Bahasa Melayu is from Utusan Borneo Online. MIRI: Kerajaan Sarawak mengalu-alukan pembangunan berfikiran jauh yang dirancang secara rapi, dibina dengan penuh tanggungjawab serta memberi manfaat kepada komuniti sebenar, bukan sahaja untuk masa kini tetapi juga demi generasi akan datang. Menteri Pengangkutan Sarawak merangkap ADUN Senadin Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin berkata, pembangunan seperti Kenyalang Smart City (KSC) mencerminkan pendekatan tersebut dalam usaha membentuk masa depan bandar raya ini. Beliau berkata demikian ketika berucap pada Majlis Sambutan Tahun Baharu Cina (TBC) dan Iftar KSC di sini, malam Khamis. Lee  menegaskan, KSC bukan sekadar pembangunan fizikal melibatkan bangunan dan infrastruktur, malah satu perancangan menyeluruh bagi membentuk masa depan yang boleh dibanggakan generasi akan datang. “Miri sentiasa menjadi bandar yang penuh tenaga. “Sejak era awal industri minyak dan gas sehingga berkembang dalam bidang pendidikan, pelancongan serta hubungan rentas sempadan, bandar ini tidak pernah berhenti melangkah,” ujarnya. Beliau percaya sesebuah bandar perlu mempunyai sistem pergerakan dan ketersambungan yang baik sebelum mampu berkembang secara mampan. “Ketersambungan menyatukan rakyat, mewujudkan peluang dan memberi tenaga kepada sesebuah bandar,” jelasnya. Beliau turut menekankan bahawa pembangunan seperti KSC memberi penekanan kepada perancangan pintar, mobiliti cekap, penjagaan alam sekitar serta penyediaan ruang yang kondusif untuk didiami, bekerja dan membesarkan keluarga. Sehubungan itu, beliau berkata kerjasama erat antara kerajaan, sektor swasta dan komuniti amat penting dalam menjayakan agenda pembangunan negeri. “Apabila pemaju seperti Imasa Dinasti melabur dengan visi dan tanggungjawab, kerajaan sentiasa bersedia untuk menyokong serta memudah cara,” katanya. Mengulas lanjut, beliau berharap KSC akan menjadi simbol kejayaan baharu Miri, menarik bakat, mewujudkan peluang pekerjaan dan membuka ruang ekonomi kepada rakyat Sarawak. Dalam pada itu, penganjuran sambutan TBC dan Iftar dalam satu majlis yang sama mungkin jarang diadakan di tempat lain, namun di Sarawak ia adalah sesuatu yang cukup semula jadi. “Di sinilah kekuatan kita. Kita meraikan bersama, saling menghormati dan melangkah ke hadapan sebagai satu keluarga besar,” katanya. Tambah beliau, TBC melambangkan permulaan baharu, keyakinan dan harapan, manakala Iftar mengingatkan tentang kesyukuran, kesabaran serta nilai kebersamaan. Gabungan nilai ini jelas menggambarkan semangat Sarawak yang mesra, inklusif dan berpandangan jauh. Sempena sambutan Tahun Kuda, beliau mengajak seluruh rakyat agar terus melangkah dengan penuh keyakinan dan perpaduan demi kemajuan negeri. Hadir sama ialah Timbalan Menteri Pelancongan Sarawak Datuk Sebastian Ting, ADUN Telang Usan Dato Dennis Ngau, Pengasas yang juga  Pengerusi Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd Teo Ah Khing dan Timbalan Datuk Bandar Ariffin Mohamad.

                                                         Lee (left) greets guests during his Gong Xi Raya Open House in Permyjaya.   MIRI (Feb 19): About 6,000 people attended Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin’s Gong Xi Raya Open House at Dato Permaisuri Hall in Permyjaya on Wednesday. The event drew residents from various races, religions and cultural backgrounds, reflecting Sarawak’s strong spirit of unity in diversity. Lee, who is also the Senadin assemblyman, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to those who attended. “I am deeply touched and filled with overwhelming gratitude for everyone who joined my Chinese New Year Open House, personally conveying their Gong Xi Fa Cai greetings and warmest best wishes. “Seeing approximately 6,000 people from all walks of life, spanning diverse communities, races, religions, and cultures, gather together, many with their beloved families by their side, warmed my heart like nothing else,” he said. He added that such gatherings not only serve as a platform to celebrate festive occasions but also strengthen unity among Sarawak’s multiracial community. “This embodies the spirit of our united and harmonious multi-cultural Sarawak – a shining, living model of unity in diversity that fills me with hope and pride. “It is this spirit that makes Sarawak a fine example of unity in diversity, while instilling pride and hope for a brighter future,” he said.

Rohaizi (fourth right) and Matthew (third right) jointly cut the ribbon to launch the Permyjaya Ramadan Bazaar.   MIRI (Feb 22): The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has implemented 11 Bazaar Ramadan Rahmah (BRR) locations throughout Sarawak this year as part of its ongoing efforts to help the public access affordable breaking-of-fast meals during Ramadan. The Sarawak Zone Bazaar Ramadan Rahmah (BRR) walkabout session commenced at the Permyjaya Ramadan Bazaar here, which is part of the broader Payung Rahmah Madani Programme initiative. Now entering its fourth year since its introduction on March 27, 2023, the 2026 BRR has expanded to 116 Ramadan bazaar locations nationwide, involving approximately 3,000 traders – an increase from 80 locations in 2023 and 103 locations in 2024. In Sarawak, the 11 BRR locations implemented in collaboration with local authorities are Permyjaya Ramadan Bazaar in Miri; Stutong Ramadan Bazaar and Satok Ramadan Bazaar in Kuching; Taman Komuniti Ramadan Bazaar in Serian, Fiesta Ramadan Bazaar Sri Aman (in front of the Old Hospital), Sarikei Central Market Parking Lot Ramadan Bazaar, Farley Parking Lot Ramadan Bazaar in Sibu, Setia Raja Ramadan Bazaar in Mukah, Taman Koridor Sejarah dan Kebudayaan Ramadan Bazaar in Bintulu, Lawas Square Ramadan Bazaar, and Parking Lot 777 MARA Ramadan Bazaar in Limbang. At these locations, participating traders are offering Rahmah Meals priced at RM5 and below as additional menu items to ensure low-income groups can enjoy balanced and affordable meals. The Sarawak-level launch was officiated by KPDN Business Development, Corporate and Direct Sales Division secretary Dato’ Rohaizi Bahari last Saturday. According to Rohaizi, the 11 BRR locations in Sarawak aim to widen access to affordable food throughout Ramadan, with the state-level launch in held in Miri. “At this location alone, there are about 80 traders, with approximately 15 of them offering Rahmah Meals priced at RM5 and below,” he told reporters. “Although there has been an increase in the prices of goods, there is still room for traders to provide Rahmah menu options at reasonable prices to assist the public,” he added. Rohaizi expressed appreciation to traders who have collaborated with the ministry to ensure the success of the initiative and encouraged the public to continue supporting local vendors. In addition to enhancing access to affordable food, the government has strengthened the implementation of the Ihsan Food Bank (i-FB), a rebranding and transformation of the MySaveFood initiative. The i-FB initiative is based on the 3S concept — Support the Community, Save the Environment, and Save Food — by rescuing surplus food for redistribution to those in need. Meanwhile, KPDN is conducting regular monitoring under ‘Ops Pantau 2026’ to ensure compliance with price-tagging regulations and ethical business practices throughout Ramadan. To date, Rohaizi said the ministry has not received any complaints regarding the Rahmah Ramadan Bazaars in the state. He encouraged consumers to make informed purchasing by checking prices and cleanliness before buying and urged them to lodge complaints through KPDN’s official channels if traders fail to display price tags or violate stipulated conditions. “I hope the public will refrain from immediately spreading such matters on social media and instead report them to the ministry first to enable appropriate action to be taken,” he said. Also present was Sarawak KPDN director Matthew Dominic Barin.

Ling (kiri) dan Chiew bergambar kenangan ketika Rumah Terbuka TBC Chiew di Eastwood baru-baru ini.   This news in Bahasa Melayu is from Utusan Borneo Online.   MIRI: Pelantikan Chiew Choon Man sebagai Timbalan Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia diyakini mampu membawa dimensi baharu kepada pembangunan sektor pelancongan Miri. Setiausaha Pakatan Harapan (PH) Sarawak Alan Ling berkata, Chiew yang juga Ahli Parlimen Miri mempunyai perancangan dan agenda besar untuk memajukan bandar raya ini, khususnya dalam memperkasa industri pelancongan. Menurutnya, sejak Miri diisytiharkan sebagai bandar raya peranginan selepas memperoleh status bandar raya pada 2005, rakyat tempatan menaruh harapan tinggi agar sektor pelancongan benar-benar berkembang dan memberi limpahan ekonomi kepada penduduk setempat. “Saya percaya pelantikan beliau ke dalam Kabinet Persekutuan amat tepat pada masanya. “Miri memerlukan lonjakan baharu dalam industri pelancongan dan saya yakin Chiew mempunyai perancangan tersusun untuk merealisasikannya,” ujarnya. Terdahulu, Ling mengunjungi Chiew pada Majlis Rumah Terbuka Tahun Baharu Cina (TBC) beliau yang diadakan di Eastwood Golf & Country Club pada hari kedua perayaan itu. Ia merupakan rumah terbuka TBC pertama Chiew selepas dilantik sebagai Timbalan Menteri dalam rombakan Kabinet pada Disember tahun lalu. Ling, yang juga merupakan Ahli Lembaga Pengurusan Majlis Sukan Negara, turut dijemput untuk menyampaikan ucapan bagi menyantuni ribuan hadirin daripada pelbagai lapisan masyarakat dan kaum, sekali gus mempamerkan suasana harmoni sepanjang perayaan tersebut. Ling berkata, usaha bersepadu melibatkan semua pihak berkepentingan amat penting bagi memastikan potensi Miri sebagai destinasi pelancongan utama dapat dimanfaatkan sepenuhnya. Beliau turut menyuarakan keyakinan bahawa dengan strategi promosi lebih agresif, penekanan terhadap keunikan alam semula jadi serta kepelbagaian budaya masyarakat setempat, Miri mampu mencatat peningkatan ketibaan pelancong dalam tempoh terdekat. “Ini termasuk menarik bukan sahaja pelancong asing, malah pelancong domestik dari Semenanjung Malaysia dan Sabah untuk datang menikmati keindahan serta keistimewaan Miri,” ujarnya. Beliau berharap sempena Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (TMM2026), Miri akan meraih lebih banyak manfaat dengan kehadiran Chiew dalam kementerian pelancongan ketika ini.

Chiew (lima kiri) dan Pauline (enam kiri) bersama kenangan bersama pemilik dan pengasas Batik Linut, Diana Rose (empat kiri) serta para model yang memperagakan sebahagian daripada koleksi batik linut yang dipamerkan pada malam itu.  This news in Bahasa Melayu is from Utusan Borneo Online. MIRI: Pemain industri dan rakan korporat diseru tampil memperkukuhkan sokongan terhadap industri kreatif tempatan bagi memastikan reka bentuk etnik dan produk budaya Sarawak mampu menembusi pasaran serantau serta antarabangsa. Timbalan Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia, Chiew Choon Man berkata dengan bimbingan berterusan, strategi penjenamaan yang mantap serta pemerkasaan pemasaran digital, hasil karya pereka dan pengusaha tempatan bukan sahaja berpotensi menjadi produk pelancongan bernilai tinggi, malah mampu mengangkat nama Sarawak di persada global. Beliau memberitahu demikian semasa berucap merasmikan Sarawak Ethnic Contemporary Design Showcase 2026 yang dianjurkan bersama oleh Rotary Club of Miri Oil Town dan Persatuan Wanita Orang Ulu Malaysia (PWOUM), yang berlangsung di sebuah hotel di sini, malam tadi. Chiew mewakili menterinya, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.  Tambahnya lagi, kolaborasi kukuh antara pertubuhan khidmat dan pemimpin wanita komuniti dalam memelihara serta memperkukuh identiti budaya tempatan itu merupakan salah satu langkah yang wajar dicontohi oleh pertubuhan atau pengiat industri berkaitan. “Kolaborasi yang terjalin menerusi penganjuran Sarawak Ethnic Contemporary Design Showcase 2026 di Miri ini juga membuktikan bahawa inisiatif tempatan mampu menyumbang secara signifikan kepada aspirasi nasional, sekali gus menjadi model inovasi budaya dan pemerkasaan komuniti untuk dicontohi di seluruh negara,” katanya.  Dalam masa sama, katanya, kejayaan kempen Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) bukan sekadar bergantung kepada kempen promosi, sebaliknya memerlukan penglibatan aktif setiap negeri, daerah dan komuniti, termasuk kerjasama erat antara kerajaan, sektor swasta, pertubuhan bukan kerajaan (NGO) serta masyarakat setempat. Justeru penganjuran acara tersebut, katanya, bukan sekadar acara makan malam dan pertunjukan fesyen, sebaliknya menjadi platform strategik memperkasa usahawan wanita pribumi serta mengangkat warisan budaya Sarawak sebagai produk pelancongan bernilai tinggi menjelang VM2026. “Usaha kolektif ini penting bagi memastikan VM2026 bukan sahaja menonjolkan destinasi pelancongan, tetapi turut mengetengahkan jiwa, identiti serta kepelbagaian budaya rakyat Malaysia sebagai kekuatan utama negara,” ujarnya. “Malah penyertaan aktif komuniti seperti Kelabit, Kenyah, Kayan, Penan, Iban dan Lun Bawang dalam bidang keusahawanan kreatif turut menyokong agenda pelancongan inklusif dan berteraskan rakyat, selaras komitmen kementerian dalam memastikan manfaat ekonomi pelancongan dinikmati hingga ke peringkat akar umbi,” tambah beliau lagi.  Katanya, dengan inisiatif di Miri itu berpotensi menjadi model inovasi budaya dan pemerkasaan komuniti di peringkat nasional. Hadir sama di majlis itu malam tadi ialah presiden Rotary Club of Miri Oil Town Pauline Sagau dan pengerusi Persatuan Wanita Orang Ulu Kijan Toynbee. 

Ting (lapan kiri) bersama ahli-ahli Persatuan Wartawan Sarawak Utara (NSJA) yang turut mengunjungi Rumah Terbuka Tahun Baru Cina terbabit diketuai oleh presidennya Chai Chon Chin (tujuh kiri). This news in Bahasa Melayu is from Utusan Borneo Online. MIRI: Kehadiran Tahun Kuda kali ini diharap membawa kemakmuran dan rezeki melimpah kepada rakyat, khususnya penduduk bandar raya ini, lebih-lebih lagi menjelang kempen Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VMY2026) yang dilancarkan Januari lalu, kata Timbalan Menteri Pelancongan, Industri Kreatif dan Seni Persembahan Sarawak Datuk Sebastian Ting. Bercakap kepada pemberita semasa ditemui pada sambutan Rumah Terbuka Tahun Baru Cina yang dianjurkan oleh beliau dan SUPP Cawangan DUN Piasau di sini, petang semalam, Ting turut menzahirkan kegembiraan di atas sambutan orang ramai yang hadir.  “Saya gembira menyaksikan ramai yang datang ke sambutan rumah terbuka tahun ini dan pada masa yang sama saya berharap semua yang datang dan penduduk Miri khususnya dilimpahi dengan keberkatan, kemakmuran serta kesihatan yang baik sepanjang Tahun Kuda ini,” katanya.  Ting turut mengucapkan selamat berbuka puasa kepada umat Islam yang hadir pada majlis rumah terbuka itu, yang diadakan pada sebelah petang dan malam bagi membolehkan mereka yang berpuasa hadir dan memeriahkan majlis. Lebih 5,000 pengunjung, dari pelbagai lapisan masyarakat, agama dan kaum, hadir seawal jam 5 petang hingga 9 malam tadi, ke rumah terbuka itu yang berlangsung di Dewan Suarah Miri, bagi mengucapkan Selamat Tahun Baru Cina kepada Ting dan keluarga serta ahli exco SUPP DUN Piasau.  Majlis turut diserikan dengan persembahan tarian singa dari pelbagai pertubuhan dan kelab di sekitar bandar raya ini

Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin (centre) inspects one of the drains in Senadin during his inspection on flood situation in the area on Sunday morning. — The Borneo Post MIRI, Jan 11 — The Miri City Council (MCC), Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) and Public Works Department (JKR) have been directed to take immediate action to address flash flood issues in several parts of the city, particularly in the Senadin area. Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, who is also the Senadin assemblyman, said that during an inspection of the flood-affected areas in Senadin on Sunday morning, he found water levels in several streams and outlets to be higher than usual, preventing floodwater from discharging effectively into nearby rivers. “As such, DID will be tasked to look into this immediately, including clearing, widening and dredging certain streams where necessary,” he told reporters when met at a function on Sunday. He added that the relevant agencies have been instructed to carry out the works as soon as possible. Lee also highlighted drainage issues along Jalan Ilmu and parts of Desa Senadin, where one side of the drain is elevated and overgrown with vegetation. “This has worsened the situation. MCC will carry out immediate clearing works, including unsealing and clearing drains and removing vegetation, especially in Desa Ilmu and Desa Senadin, which are the most severely affected areas,” he said. Explaining the recurring floods in Senadin, Lee said the detention pond in the area was already at a high water level, limiting its ability to discharge excess water during heavy rain. “This issue must be resolved, both at the detention pond and the outlet,” he said. On the flood situation, Lee said that as of Sunday morning, floodwaters had receded in most areas, except in Desa Senadin. He added that conditions along the main road had improved significantly, with only one short stretch still inundated. During the visit, Lee said he and his team met residents in Desa Indah, Desa Murni and Desa Senadin to gather feedback, while inspections were also carried out on drainage outlets in the affected locations. Responding to criticism over delays in executing the projects, Lee said the focus has always been on completing the projects and resolving the problem rather than making repeated announcements. He thus called on residents to be patient, noting that plans are already in place to mitigate flooding not only in Senadin but across Miri through three major drainage projects that are either ongoing or have been approved. Lee added that the proposals for these projects were first submitted in early 2023. “The public must understand that such projects require time due to government procedures. “There are processes involved, including consultant appointments, studies, design, costing, siting approvals, land surveys and, in some cases, land acquisition. These procedures cannot be bypassed,” he added. — The Borneo Post  

Lee (standing, seventh left), Randy (fifth left), Tan (sixth left) and Ariffin (seventh left) in a photocall with staff of Pullman Miri Waterfront and children from Peryatim Miri. MIRI (Feb 4): Pullman Miri Waterfront has been commended as a caring and compassionate corporate citizen and a model for other companies to emulate in carrying out corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives for the surrounding community, said Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. The Sarawak Transport Minister said the hotel has consistently upheld its social obligations by organising community-based programmes every year, particularly during festive seasons such as Christmas and Chinese New Year. “When celebrating a festival, we should not forget those who are less fortunate. By giving them the opportunity to join in and celebrate together, it makes a meaningful difference,” he said when officiating the Gong Xi Raya dinner at Pullman Miri Waterfront hotel here on Monday night. He added that such initiatives help ensure the less fortunate feel included as part of society and are able to experience the joy and atmosphere of festive celebrations, which in turn bring positive impact to the community. A total of 70 orphans from the Sarawak Orphans Welfare Board (Peryatim) Miri were invited to the dinner and to experience the Chinese New Year festive atmosphere during the programme. According to Lee, the hotel’s CSR efforts reflect Sarawak’s unique identity, which is widely recognised for its harmony, unity, mutual respect and close ties among communities of different religions and cultural backgrounds. He said that in Sarawak, festivals are celebrated collectively by the entire community. “Chinese New Year is not only for the Chinese community. In Sarawak, almost everyone celebrates it together. We hold open houses and people from various cultural backgrounds come to visit and exchange festive greetings. “The same spirit applies to other festivals. During Hari Raya, we extend Selamat Hari Raya to our Muslim friends, and when Gawai arrives, we wish our Dayak friends Selamat Hari Gawai. This is what makes Sarawak special — we celebrate together regardless of our differences,” he said. Touching on development matters, Lee said the Sarawak government continues to strengthen the business and tourism sectors, particularly positioning Miri as a resort city. He noted that AirBorneo has commenced operations, with its flights running smoothly, and plans are underway to expand its regional routes in the second half of the year, subject to regulatory approvals. Lee said Miri also needs more five-star hotels to attract international events. “At present, Miri has only about two five-star hotels with around 500 rooms. To host large-scale international conferences and events, we require at least 2,000 to 3,000 five-star hotel rooms, supported by four-star hotels,” he said. With the development of a convention centre and other projects in Miri, Lee said the demand for quality hotel accommodation has become increasingly critical. He added that with these developments in place, Miri has strong potential to emerge as a major destination for international events and conferences in the region. Also present at the dinner were Interhill Hospitality chief operating officer Eric Tan, Pullman Miri Waterfront general manager Randy Nickcolas Constantine and Miri City deputy mayor Cr Ariffin Mohamad.      

Wan Junaidi and Fauziah (centre) in a group photo with the delegation of Jatti Miriek Miri Association. Photo by Astana Negeri Sarawak. KUCHING: The Jatti Miriek Miri Association paid a courtesy call on Head of State (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, primarily to introduce its leadership and seek guidance on strengthening the role of the association in empowering the Jatti Miriek community in the state. Wan Junaidi, accompanied by his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, received the delegation at the official residence in Petra Jaya here at 10am. The delegation was led by the association’s vice-president, Datuk Mohamad Safri Abdillah. During the meeting, the association briefed Wan Junaidi on its organisational structure and ongoing efforts while seeking his views and advice on how the association can more effectively contribute to the social, cultural and community development of the Jatti Miriek people in Sarawak. The delegation also conveyed its appreciation for Wan Junaidi’s role in ensuring that the status of Sarawak’s various ethnic groups continues to be officially recognised by the Sarawak government. In his remarks, Wan Junaidi highlighted the importance of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) being recognised and entrenched in the Federal Constitution to safeguard the rights of Sarawakians in line with the spirit of the formation of Malaysia. He further advised the association’s leadership to carry out their responsibilities with sincerity, stressing that culture and heritage are not merely legacies of the past but form the foundation of identity and future direction. Wan Junaidi also commended the association’s efforts in publishing books related to the culture and heritage of the Jatti Miriek community. Wan Junaidi and Fauziah expressed their hope that the Jatti Miriek Miri Association would continue to preserve its language, culture and heritage while strengthening the welfare of its members and community in line with Sarawak’s development agenda.

Photo shows the police crest. MIRI (Feb 4): A 60-year-old local man was arrested by police on Monday in connection with the theft of two pouch bags from a vehicle parts shop at Jalan Permaisuri here, resulting in losses estimated at RM1,200. Miri District Police said the suspect was arrested in front of a shop at Jalan Cina here at around 5.40pm. “The suspect is being investigated under Section 380 of the Penal Code for theft,” it said in a statement. Police advised members of the public to remain vigilant and to step up security measures, particularly around shop premises. They also urged shop owners to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in open areas and to report any suspicious activities to the police to help prevent criminal incidents.

Yii (standing behind, second left) joins other guests and recipients of education incentive in a photo-call. MIRI (Feb 2): Hawkers play a vital role in driving local economic growth and strengthening tourism in Miri by preserving traditional food, culture and craftsmanship, said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I Datuk Sebastian Ting. He said traditional cuisine, local culture and unique skills are among the key forces supporting tourism development and the local economy, noting that hawkers in Miri have continued to uphold traditional practices and pass down authentic local flavours. “These traditional tastes leave lasting impressions and become shared memories for visitors. “They are what make people return and help position Miri as an attractive tourism destination,” he said. His speech was read by Pujut assemblyman and Miri mayor Adam Yii at the Miri United Hawkers Association Chinese New Year dinner Sunday held at a local restaurant here on Sunday. Ting encouraged hawkers to continue passing down their skills to the younger generation, adding that while tradition should be preserved, innovation and modern approaches can help the industry remain relevant and competitive. He pointed out that many hawkers have begun transforming and upgrading their businesses by adopting modern practices, including the use of electronic payments introduced by the Sarawak government, to improve efficiency and keep pace with technological developments. Meanwhile, Ting said the Miri City Council (MCC) will continue organising meet-the-people session in various areas to allow hawkers and residents to raise issues and needs, which will be recorded and followed up to improve community facilities and the overall business environment. Looking ahead, he expressed hope that national-level hawker events, or even a dedicated Hawker Day, could one day be hosted in Miri to showcase hawker spirit, craftsmanship and their contribution to tourism. The dinner was the association’s annual event, held following its annual general meeting, and featured the presentation of educational incentives to members’ children who excelled academically. Also present at the event were Chaw Zhe Jian, representing Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia Chiew Choon Man; Miri United Hawkers Association chairman Chong Khi Choan; and the association’s founder Temenggong Yong Vui Seng.

Ngue Cheng En, Betty Pong dan Richard Kho. Foto TVS This news in Bahasa Melayu is from Utusan Borneo Online. MIRI, 3 Feb: Persiapan menyambut Tahun Baharu Cina di bandar raya Miri semakin rancak dengan pelbagai pihak giat mengekalkan tradisi kebudayaan, keagamaan serta amalan masyarakat turun-temurun. Jurulatih tarian singa Sekolah Menengah (SM) Pei Min, Ngue Cheng En berkata, sambutan Tahun Baharu Cina baginya lebih tertumpu kepada aktiviti tarian singa dan naga yang telah diceburinya sejak usia 11 tahun. “Setiap kali Tahun Baharu Cina, saya memang fokus sepenuhnya kepada tarian singa dan naga,” katanya ketika ditemui TVS, baru-baru ini. Menurut Ngue, beliau telah berkecimpung dalam bidang tersebut selama lebih 15 tahun dan kini bertindak sebagai jurulatih bagi melatih generasi muda agar terus menguasai seni tradisional itu. Sementara itu, Penghulu Betty Pong memaklumkan persiapan turut giat dijalankan di Tokong Tua Pek Kong, antara tokong tertua di Miri yang berusia lebih satu abad. Menurutnya, tokong tersebut akan dihiasi dengan tanglung dan perhiasan tradisional sebagai persediaan menyambut perayaan, selari dengan amalan masyarakat Cina setiap tahun. “Kami akan menukar semua tanglung dan perhiasan. Segala-galanya perlu diganti, termasuk kemudahan sumbangan di luar tokong yang dihiasi dengan banyak tanglung kecil. Tanglung-tanglung ini disediakan untuk orang ramai datang membuat sumbangan dan membelinya,” katanya. Betty berkata, masyarakat Cina amat menitikberatkan kesihatan, kebahagiaan dan keharmonian dalam menyambut Tahun Baharu Cina, selain mengekalkan kepercayaan serta adat resam yang diwarisi sejak dahulu. Dalam sektor perniagaan pula, pemilik Ching Tai Bird’s Nest Sea Products Centre, Richard Kho berkata, permintaan terhadap bakul hadiah meningkat ketara menjelang Tahun Baharu Cina. “Kebiasaannya kami menyediakan pelbagai jenis bakul hadiah untuk pelanggan kerana ia sebahagian daripada budaya masyarakat Cina, sama ada untuk diberikan kepada keluarga atau rakan,” katanya. Menurut Richard, produk kesihatan seperti sarang burung, abalon, timun laut, perut ikan dan cendawan menjadi antara barangan paling laris sepanjang musim perayaan. Beliau berharap lebih ramai masyarakat dapat menghargai makanan tradisional Cina serta mengamalkan gaya hidup sihat, khususnya ketika musim perayaan ini. – TVS

Lee yang juga pengasas The Twin Brothers Patisserie (dua kiri) menyerahkan sumbangan roti kepada Andy selaku pengerusi penganjur bersama program derma darah tersebut. This news in Bahasa Melayu is from Utusan Borneo Online. MIRI: Sebagai inisiatif membantu menambah bekalan darah di Tabung Darah Hospital Miri, Persatuan Prihatin Masyarakat Miri (PPMM) bersama Sayap Belia Persatuan Klan Lee Miri (PKIM) akan menganjurkan program Derma Darah Prihatin Komuniti 2026 pada Ahad ini. Program yang bermula dari jam 9 pagi hingga 1 tengah hari itu akan berlangsung di ruang pameran Aras 3, Kompleks Beli-Belah Boulevard, Jalan Pujut di sini. Menurut Ketua Sayap Belia PKLM Lee Jun Tak dan Timbalan Presiden PPMM Andy Jong Wan Joon, program ini diharap dapat meningkatkan kesedaran orang ramai tentang kepentingan menderma darah. Selain itu, ia juga bagi menzahirkan semangat keprihatinan dan perpaduan komuniti Miri, khususnya ketika Tabung Darah Hospital Miri kini berdepan masalah kekurangan bekalan darah. “Ketika berdepan musim perayaan seperti Tahun Baharu Cina, Bulan Ramadan dan Hari Raya Aidilfitri, sudah pasti Tabung Darah Hospital Miri memerlukan bekalan darah mencukupi bagi memastikan keperluan transfusi untuk kes kecemasan dan pesakit dapat dipenuhi sepanjang tempoh perayaan,” kata mereka. Justeru, orang ramai diseru agar tampil menyertai aktiviti derma darah ini kerana setiap beg darah yang didermakan mampu menyelamatkan nyawa dan sokongan masyarakat amat diperlukan mengikut kemampuan masing-masing demi kesejahteraan komuniti. Menurut mereka, bagi menggalakkan penyertaan orang ramai, pihak penganjur dan penaja telah menyediakan beg cenderahati untuk 100 penderma darah terawal yang mengandungi sepeket 1 kilogram beras wangi Butterfly, roti dan minyak masak Merris Lite Pure Vegetable Oil 500ml. Program ini mendapat sokongan beberapa penaja seperti Tong Seng Huat Rice Trading Sdn Bhd dan Liansin Trading Sdn Bhd yang menaja beras, The Twin Brothers Patisserie menaja roti manakala Sarawak Oil Palm Berhad menaja minyak masak. Program ini juga dianjurkan dengan kerjasama Tabung Darah Hospital Miri dan Bulan Sabit Merah Miri dan Pusat Beli-Belah Boulevard selaku penyedia lokasi bagi program derma darah ini.

Sebanyak 83 notis saman dikeluarkan dalam Ops Bersepadu yang dijalankan IPD Miri dan JPJ Cawangan Miri, pada Rabu. This news in Bahasa Melayu is from Utusan Borneo Online. MIRI: Sebanyak 83 notis saman membabitkan pelbagai kesalahan trafik telah dikeluarkan sepanjang Ops Bersepadu yang dijalankan oleh Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) Daerah Miri bersama Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) Cawangan Miri di dua lokasi sekatan jalan raya di sini, pada Rabu. Operasi yang berlangsung dari jam 3 petang hingga 5 petang itu dilaksanakan di Jalan Kuala Baram By Pass dan Jalan Permyjaya By Pass bagi memastikan pematuhan undang-undang serta meningkatkan keselamatan pengguna jalan raya. Operasi bersepadu berkenaan melibatkan seramai 37 pegawai penguat kuasa, terdiri daripada 29 anggota polis dari Ibu Pejabat Polis Daerah (IPD) Miri dan lapan pegawai dari JPJ Cawangan Miri. Sepanjang tempoh operasi dijalankan, sebanyak 109 buah kenderaan telah diperiksa melibatkan pelbagai kategori pengguna jalan raya. Sebanyak 83 notis saman dikeluarkan dalam Ops Bersepadu yang dijalankan IPD Miri dan JPJ Cawangan Miri, pada Rabu. Hasil pemeriksaan, pihak polis telah mengeluarkan sebanyak 28 notis saman, manakala JPJ mengeluarkan 55 notis saman atas pelbagai kesalahan di bawah Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987. Operasi yang berlangsung selama dua jam itu berjalan lancar tanpa sebarang kejadian tidak diingini berlaku, selain keadaan cuaca yang baik sepanjang penugasan. Dalam pada itu, JPJ Cawangan Miri merakamkan setinggi-tinggi penghargaan kepada PDRM atas kerjasama strategik yang terjalin dalam usaha berterusan memperkukuhkan keselamatan jalan raya serta tahap pematuhan undang-undang di daerah ini. Sebanyak 83 notis saman dikeluarkan dalam Ops Bersepadu yang dijalankan IPD Miri dan JPJ Cawangan Miri, pada Rabu.

Chiew Choon Man MIRI (Feb 2): Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister and Miri MP Chiew Choon Man is supporting two major Chinese New Year (CNY) carnival events in the city this February, aimed at bringing joy back to local shoppers and hawkers. The events mark a revival after last year’s cancellation of the traditional annual bazaar, which had been  organised for decades by Miri City Council (MCC) and the Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce. Chiew said community-focused festive programmes play a crucial role in strengthening cultural identity, boosting tourism, supporting the local economy, and creating sustainable income opportunities for traders, SMEs, and players in the creative industry. “These initiatives directly align with the national tourism recovery strategy and Sarawak’s tourism growth agenda,” he said in a statement on Monday. The first event, ‘Back to the 80’s – Old Street Chinese New Year Market’, will be held from February 13 to 16, from 4pm to 11pm at Krokop 5 Market. The nostalgia-themed market aims to recreate the atmosphere of traditional 1980s Chinese New Year street markets, featuring handwritten spring couplets, traditional festive snacks, heritage food stalls, and interactive cultural activities. Chiew said such initiatives help preserve intangible cultural heritage, encourage intergenerational cultural transmission, and provide authentic tourism experiences for both locals and visitors. The second event, ‘the 2026 Year of the Horse Carnival’, will take place from February 5 to 14, from 5pm to 11pm at the Boulevard Shopping Mall open car park. Featuring 40 to 50 booths, the carnival will offer CNY delicacies, festive merchandise, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The venue will be adorned with lanterns, cultural installations and themed lighting to create an immersive festive atmosphere. Nightly Chinese cultural performances are scheduled throughout the 10-day event to encourage repeat visits and sustain economic activity for nearby businesses. Chiew has provided financial support for the performances to enhance the vibrancy of the festivals and enrich visitors’ cultural experience. He emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in developing diversified tourism products, strengthening destination branding, and boosting Malaysia’s competitiveness in cultural tourism. He also thanked the organisers for promoting cultural heritage, fostering community participation, and creating festive tourism platforms that benefit local businesses and the wider community. Chiew pledged that his office would continue collaborating with organisers, stakeholders and government agencies to ensure that Miri remains an attractive, dynamic and culturally rich tourism destination.  

Dennis (third right) with Henry on his left and others during the courtesy call.   MIRI (Feb 4): Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau will be submitting a list of priority development projects for his constituency to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Miri. In a Facebook post, he said the proposed list was compiled after he paid a courtesy call on DID Miri divisional engineer Henry Tuah, where he was briefed on the department’s ongoing and planned projects. “The briefing covered several projects including the riverbank erosion mitigation works at Kampung Long Watt and Kampung Long Ikang, erosion control works in the Logan Sibong area, as well as the padi field development project in Long Aton,” he said. Dennis also received updates on drainage construction projects implemented under the Rural Transformation Project allocation for the Telang Usan constituency, including repair and upgrading works to the drainage in parts of Senadin. “Based on the discussion, I will be submitting an official request for the consideration of several priority projects for Telang Usan, including the construction and upgrading of farm roads, river and estuary dredging works, padi field development initiatives and riverbank erosion mitigation projects,” he said.

Yii (seated 3rd right) posing for a group photo with representatives of Thinker Cultural Tourism Operator Water Theme Parks, China after the courtesy visit. MIRI: Miri may be a step closer to hosting the first large-scale regional water theme park in northern Borneo following a high-level courtesy call between a China-based cultural tourism operator and the city’s leadership, facilitated by Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd. The meeting, held at the Mayor’s Office on Monday (Feb 2), brought together representatives of Thinker Cultural Tourism Operator Water Theme Parks from China and the TAK Group of Companies with Miri City Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang. The engagement focused on assessing Miri’s readiness for a major leisure and tourism investment, with Kenyalang Smart City (KSC) identified as a potential site. Yii said the discussions were constructive and informative, noting that the delegation represented a sizeable operator with extensive experience in China. “They are a big group with major operations in China. We provided them with a briefing on Miri, and they indicated that Miri is an interesting location with strong potential for a water theme park development,” he told reporters after the meeting. Yii said the proposed project, if realised, would be the only water theme park of its kind in the region, positioning it as a regional draw rather than a purely local attraction.   “This will be a regional attraction. Within a two-hour driving radius, Miri already has a catchment of about one million people. With improved connectivity, it is conceivable that visitors could come from as far as Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and even across Borneo,” he said. He added that the operator’s established international marketing and tourism networks, particularly in China, could significantly boost visitor arrivals and support the city’s broader economic development objectives. The mayor said the delegation would now proceed with further site investigations and detailed evaluations before making any investment decision. “We are hopeful they will find Miri suitable for the investment. They will conduct their own feasibility studies and assessments,” he said. Yii also revealed that the preliminary concept discussed included an integrated development component, with plans for additional hotel capacity of up to 500 rooms to support the water theme park. He noted that such facilities could be expanded further, subject to demand and future growth. Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd, which facilitated the engagement, described the meeting as an important first step in positioning Miri on the radar of reputable international investors in the cultural tourism and leisure sector. The company reiterated its role as a bridge between global investors and local stakeholders, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements, urban planning priorities and long-term sustainability goals. The Chinese delegation comprised senior executives from Thinker Cultural Tourism Operator Water Theme Parks, including sales director Chang Yana and general managers Chen Weimin and Jiang Hepiang; and TAK Group vice-president and head of risk management Darren Tan and alongside project architect Aryton Kong. Yii said the city council remained committed to supporting investments that deliver long-term economic and social value for Miri and its surrounding areas. “If this project materialises, it will not only enhance Miri’s tourism offering but also stimulate growth in the surrounding areas. That is the outcome we are working towards,” he added.

Saloma (middle) and other member of JKKK Kampung Piasau Utara proudly showing their dipping sauce which they produce in their newly upgraded kitchen. MIRI (Feb 5): What began as a small community effort in Kampung Piasau Utara has grown into a source of warmth, confidence and renewed hope, especially for the women who are now playing a more active role in supporting their families and the wider community. Using the kitchen at the village’s multipurpose hall, a group of the village’s women has produced their own dipping sauce, ‘Sos Pencicah Pelbagai Rasa KRT Piasau Utara’, earlier this month. Saloma Amat, a member of the village’s development and security committee (JKKK), said the availability of proper kitchen facilities has made a real difference. “With equipment such as a grinder, refrigerator, other kitchen equipment and a newly upgraded kitchen, it has become much easier and more comfortable for us to try new ideas, “By making good use of our free time, we can earn extra income for our families while strengthening women’s roles and family bonds in this village,” she said in an interview. Saloma explained that the kitchen equipment, renovations and improvements to the multipurpose hall — including fans, chairs and eight units of industrial air coolers — were made possible through funding from the Ministry of Digital after Kampung Piasau Utara was selected as a Kampung Angkat Madani (KAM). Mohd Mansor (third left) and members of the village JKKK committee giving a thumbs-up to one of the industrial air coolers purchased using funding from the Ministry of Digital. Encouraged by the positive response to their first product, the women are now planning to expand into other products such as tomato sauce and Thai chilli sauce, with hopes of involving more women in the village and creating steady income for them. “Currently, about eight women are involved, but we hope more women will join us so we can support one another and contribute together to our household finances,” Saloma said. The funding from the minister under the KAM initiative has also helped improve daily life in the village, particularly in terms of safety and community use of shared spaces. KAM is an initiative involving Federal agencies, with the support of the Minister of Finance and Unit Pantau MADANI, to empower local communities through targeted development and support. JKKK Kampung Piasau Utara deputy chairman Mohd Mansor Mohd Hatim said residents now feel more secure and comfortable moving around their neighbourhood. He noted that theft cases have declined after better street lighting was installed at strategic locations throughout Kampung Piasau Utara. “In the past, poorly lit roads made residents feel uneasy and contributed to theft cases,” he said, adding that some incidents involved individuals struggling with drug abuse. With the installation of 35 solar light-emitting diode (LED) street lights, Mohd Mansor said residents now feel safer leaving their homes, and the village environment has become livelier, especially in the evenings. “Our futsal court is much more active now, with youths making full use of the facility until late at night because the area is well lit,” he said. Mohd Mansor said that the village’s Darul Hijrah Mosque also recently received a new closed-circuit television (CCTV) system, replacing an earlier system that was no longer functioning. Newly installed LED street lights in front of the mosque. The mosque, he said, has also received its first hearse, easing difficulties previously faced by the Muslim community. “Previously, we had to borrow a hearse from Darul Ehsan Mosque in Kampung Piasau Jaya,” Mohd Mansor said, adding that the mosque committee has agreed to make it available to any resident in need regardless of background. This, he said, reflects the close-knit nature of the village community, since they relocated to the area in the 1980s. The new hearse for Darul Hijrah Mosque Kampung Piasau Utara. The majority of residents are Melanau families resettled by the state government from Kampung Dagang near Sungai Miri, now part of the Miri Waterfront area. The village is also home to residents from other communities, including the Iban, Orang Ulu and a small number of Chinese. Support has also reached the Christian community in Kampung Piasau Utara. The Holy Rosary Chapel, located about 150 metres from the Darul Hijrah Mosque, has undergone repairs to fix roof leaks. “The damaged sections have now been replaced, and we have also received a new public address system and better-quality lighting,” the church chairman Zephrynius Har Kunai said.

MIRI (Feb 5): Residents here have raised concerns over clogged drains at the Boulevard Commercial Centre and Pelita Commercial Centre, prompting an immediate site inspection by Miri parliamentary service centre special officer Chaw Zhe Jian. Chaw said he found drains at both locations blocked and choked with rubbish, causing not just foul odours but also disrupting water flow, affecting the daily lives of residents and traders in the surrounding areas. “Following complaints received yesterday, I went to the locations at around 7am to inspect the situation personally. “What I observed was serious, with drains filled with rubbish, stagnant water, and unpleasant smells affecting the environment,” he said. Chaw noted the situation not only caused inconvenience but also posed potential hygiene and health risks if left unaddressed. He added that the matter had been immediately brought to the attention of the relevant authorities and departments, with urgent cleaning and restoration works emphasised. “I will continue to monitor progress to ensure that this issue is addressed thoroughly, so that the people of Miri can once again enjoy a clean and safe environment,” he said. He also urged members of the public to help maintain cleanliness by disposing of rubbish properly and refraining from littering. “With the cooperation of all parties, we can make Miri a cleaner, more comfortable and pleasant city to live in.” Chaw stressed that public service requires attention to issues affecting residents’ daily lives, listening to public feedback seriously, and taking concrete action to resolve problems on the ground.