Miri

Miri is a coastal city in the northern part of Sarawak, Malaysia, situated on the South China Sea near the Baram River estuary. It is the capital of Miri Division and the second-largest city in Sarawak, serving as a regional administrative and commercial hub for northern Sarawak. The city has grown largely around the oil industry and related services, a legacy of early 20th-century petroleum activity in the area.

Historically, oil discoveries in the Lutong area near Miri helped establish the city as Malaysia’s first oil town, fueling its development and economic importance. Today, oil and gas, energy services, construction, and trade remain central to Miri’s economy, complemented by government administration, retail, and tourism.

Miri serves as a gateway to several major natural and cultural attractions. Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its limestone karst formations and extensive cave systems, lies in the surrounding district. Niah Caves National Park, with significant archaeological findings, is also located within the Miri Division and draws researchers and visitors alike.

Transportation and education are well developed for a regional city. Miri is served by Miri Airport (MYY), with international and domestic flights, and is connected inland by the Pan-Borneo Highway. The city hosts a campus of Curtin University Malaysia, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Miri’s population is multi-ethnic, comprising Malay, Chinese, Iban, and other communities. The climate is tropical rainforest, characterized by high humidity and substantial rainfall year-round.