Miri, 25th April – Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) enters a new chapter today as the reinvigorated Visitor Information Centre (VIC) Miri is officially unveiled to the public. This significant occasion marks the official unveiling of the overall upgrading of the entire area, signifying a new look and purpose not only for visitors and tourists but also for the vibrant community of Miri.
The reopening ceremony featured the launch of VIC Miri officiated by YB Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Sarawak, accompanied by a symbolic flower planting ceremony, as well as captivating performances.
The movement of reconstructing the garden aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, focusing on Sustainable Cities and Communities. It highlights the creation of green public spaces, and the improvement of urban planning and management in participatory and inclusive ways, which further contributes to Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) commitment and efforts in advocating Responsible Tourism & Sustainability.
Deputy Minister Sebastian shared, “The inauguration of the enhanced Visitor Information Centre (VIC) in Miri is a special occasion as it not only unveils a revitalized look and purpose for this space but also underscores our commitment to ensuring that visitors have seamless access to information, recognizing it as the invaluable currency of travel.”
“The establishment of the Visitors Information Centre (VIC) in Miri was a vital necessity, recognizing its fundamental role in driving tourism for Sarawak. As a frontline ambassador, the VIC serves as a vital hub for information and guidance for enriching experiences, reinforcing Sarawak’s appeal as a premier destination,” he added.
STB Chairman YB Dato Dennis Ngau added “Today marks a milestone for Miri as we unveil the freshly upgraded Visitors Information Centre (VIC) in Miri, embarking on a journey to create unforgettable moments for our visitors.”
“The transformed Visitors Information Centre (VIC) in Miri not only provides information; it also actively engages stakeholders, facilitating discussions and exchanges on various tourism matters. These efforts help emphasize Miri’s significance as one of Sarawak’s primary entry points, contributing to the positioning of Sarawak as the Gateway to Borneo,” Dennis said.
As Miri remains the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Mulu National Park, the purpose of the VIC is clear to cater to the increasing number of tourists visiting the Miri division. The upgraded centre aims to create a vibrant space not only for visitors but also for the local community, welcoming various events and activities.
For the last 27 years, VIC Miri has served the increasing number of tourists visiting Miri division as Miri is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage, the Gunong Mulu National Park. The garden surrounding the revamped VIC Miri adds vibrancy not just for the visitors but also the local community.
Central to the park’s identity is its representation of Miri’s diverse and multiracial communities. The space is now open for a myriad of activities, including music, heritage showcases and more. A standout addition to the area is the magnificent Sape Sculpture, standing tall at 3.2 meters. This new landmark not only adds character to the garden but also to the city of Miri itself, becoming the one and only Sape structure in the entire city.