MIRI (Dec 7): The annual Miri Gong Xi Bazaar, a much-loved highlight of the city’s Lunar New Year celebrations, will not take place in 2026.

The organisers, the Miri City Council (MCC) and Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), said the bazaar, originally scheduled for Feb 7 to 15, has been cancelled due to delays in stall rental arrangements during preparations, leading to an unsatisfactory response for bazaar stall rentals, along with the unavailability of its traditional venue.

“For over two decades, the Miri Gong Xi Bazaar has been a symbol of celebration, community spirit and joy during the Lunar New Year. We are deeply regretful that we cannot continue this cherished tradition in 2026,” they said in a joint press statement late Saturday.

The statement added that the old Municipal Council building, the old Resident’s Office, and surrounding parking areas are currently occupied by construction of the Fudan (Southeast Asia) Institute of Integrative Medical Miri City Campus, making the site unsafe and unsuitable for hosting the festive event.

“While we are saddened by this outcome, the safety of visitors and the suitability of the venue had to take priority. We sincerely thank everyone who has made the Miri Gong Xi Bazaar a part of their Lunar New Year celebrations over the years, and we hope to bring it back in the future,” the statement added.

The bazaar has long been a much-anticipated event for families, friends, and traders in Miri, offering a vibrant mix of food, cultural performances, and festive stalls. Its cancellation is a significant blow to those who look forward to welcoming the Lunar New Year amid the lively atmosphere.

Meanwhile, the organisers expressed heartfelt appreciation to the many individuals and organisations who have supported the bazaar over the years, including Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Miri Mayor and Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang, Miri MP Chiew Choon Man; partner agencies, participating businesses, residents, and members of the media.

For many in Miri, the cancellation means missing a familiar festive tradition, leaving a sense of emptiness in a city that has come to associate the bazaar with the joy and togetherness of the Lunar New Year.