MIRI: The newly launched Miri Heritage Trail stands as a powerful tribute to the city’s unique history — from its humble beginnings as Maraboo to its emergence as Malaysia’s first oil town — and is envisioned as a living legacy for generations to come.
Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, said the trail is more than just a tourism product — it is a symbol of identity, ownership, and shared responsibility.
“This trail is not just about the past; it’s about the future. It is for those who understand that a city’s stories are part of who we are — stories that should be preserved, felt, and shared,” he said during the Miri Heritage Trail Launch Ceremony recently.
The trail encompasses important historical landmarks and narratives, including:
- The Awang Metali battle at Brighton Beach
- World War II memorials and stories of sacrifice
- Early oil exploration history and the city’s multicultural roots
It aims to bring history to life, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience the heritage not as static memories but as dynamic stories still relevant today.
Datuk Sebastian Ting expressed hope that the trail would become a symbol of pride and a platform for education and tourism, helping young generations appreciate the rich tapestry of Miri’s past.
“Heritage is not just something we preserve in books or museums. It’s something we must walk through, understand, and protect together.”
The trail also aligns with Sarawak’s efforts to develop sustainable and culturally rich tourism under the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, while strengthening local identity and community participation.
