Miri: The Gateway to Borneo's Wonders

• HelloSelamat petang
  [suh-lah-muht puh-tahng]
• GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [suh-lah-muht ting-gahl]
• YesYa
  [yah]
• NoTidak
  [tee-dahk]
• Please/You're welcomeSila
  [see-lah]
• Thank youTerima kasih
  [tuh-ree-mah kah-seeh]
• Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [mah-ahf]
• How are you?Apa khabar?
  [ah-pah kah-bahr]
• Fine. And you?Baik. Dan awak?
  [bah-eek dahn ah-wahk]
• Do you speak English?Boleh berbahasa Inggeris?
  [boh-leh buhr-bah-hah ee-nguh-rees]
• I don't understandSaya tidak faham
  [sah-yah tee-dahk fah-hahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya mahu lihat menu, sila
  [sah-yah mah-hoo lee-haht meh-noo, see-lah]
• I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sah-yah tee-dahk mah-kahn dah-yihng]
• Cheers!Sihat!
  [see-haht]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSaya mahu bayar, sila
  [sah-yah mah-hoo bah-yahr, see-lah]

• Help!Tolong!
  [toh-lohng]
• Go away!Pergi!
  [puhr-gee]
• Call the Police!Panggil polis!
  [pahng-geel poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Panggil doktor!
  [pahng-geel dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostSaya sesat
  [sah-yah suh-saht]
• I'm illSaya sakit
  [sah-yah sah-keet]

• I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sah-yah een-geen muhm-buh-lee]
• I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat
  [sah-yah huhn-yah muh-lee-haht]
• How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [buh-rah-pah hahr-gahn-yah]
• That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [ee-too tuhr-lah-loo mah-hahl]
• Can you lower the price?Boleh kurangkan harga?
  [boh-leh koo-rang-kahn hahr-gah]

• What time is it?Pukul berapa sekarang?
  [poo-kool buh-rah-pah suh-kah-rahng]
• It's one o'clockPukul satu
  [poo-kool sah-too]
• Half past (10)Pukul setengah (10)
  [poo-kool suh-tuhng-ah]
• MorningPagi
  [pah-gee]
• AfternoonPetang
  [puh-tahng]
• EveningMalam
  [mah-lahm]
• YesterdaySemalam
  [suh-mah-lahm]
• TodayHari ini
  [hah-ree ee-nee]
• TomorrowEsok
  [eh-sohk]
• 1Satu
  [sah-too]
• 2Dua
  [doo-ah]
• 3Tiga
  [tee-gah]
• 4Empat
  [uhm-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Enam
  [uh-nahm]
• 7Tujuh
  [too-joo]
• 8Lapan
  [lah-pahn]
• 9Sembilan
  [suhm-bee-lahn]
• 10Sepuluh
  [suh-pool-uh]

• Where's a/the...?Di manakah...?
  [dee mah-nah-kah]
• What's the address?Alamatnya di mana?
  [ah-lah-mah-nyah dee mah-nah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Boleh tunjukkan saya (di peta)?
  [boh-leh toon-jook-kahn sah-yah (dee peh-tah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Bila bas seterusnya?
  [bee-lah bahs suh-tuh-roos-nyah]
• A ticket (to ....)Satu tiket (ke ....)
  [sah-too tee-keht (keh)]

Miri, situated in the northern part of Sarawak on the island of Borneo, was originally a small fishing village inhabited by indigenous communities such as the Iban, Kayan, and Kenyah tribes. Its transformation into a bustling town began in 1910 when oil was discovered by the Royal Dutch Shell Company. The first oil well, known as the Grand Old Lady, marked the beginning of Miri’s journey as Malaysia's first oil town. This discovery spurred rapid development and attracted workers from various parts of the world.

In the mid-19th century, Miri came under the rule of the White Rajahs of Sarawak, a dynasty established by James Brooke. The Brooke administration played a significant role in the early development of Miri, including establishing governance structures and engaging in trade with surrounding regions. Their influence is still evident today in the city's historical architecture and administrative legacy.

During World War II, Miri was occupied by Japanese forces from 1941 to 1945. The occupation had a profound impact on the city, including the halting of oil production and significant infrastructural damage. The Japanese used Miri's oil fields to fuel their war efforts, making the city a strategic military target. The end of the occupation brought about a period of reconstruction and recovery.

Following World War II, Miri underwent extensive rebuilding efforts. The discovery of additional oil reserves in the 1950s and 1960s further spurred economic growth. This period also saw the establishment of better infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals. Miri began to diversify its economy beyond oil, developing into a center for commerce, tourism, and education.

Miri is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich tapestry of indigenous, Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities. Each group has contributed unique traditions, festivals, and culinary delights. Notable cultural attractions include the Miri Handicraft Centre, showcasing traditional crafts, and the Tamu Muhibbah market, where one can experience the local flavors and produce. The city also celebrates a variety of festivals, such as Gawai Dayak, Chinese New Year, and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

Miri is the gateway to some of Malaysia's most stunning natural attractions. The Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its limestone karst formations, caves, and diverse ecosystems. The Niah Caves, another significant site, offer archaeological insights with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. These natural wonders highlight Miri's role in preserving Malaysia's environmental and historical heritage.

In recent decades, Miri has continued to evolve from an oil town into a modern city. The development of the Marina Park and the Miri Waterfront reflect the city's commitment to urban modernization while maintaining its natural beauty. The establishment of Curtin University Malaysia has also positioned Miri as an educational hub. Today, Miri is a vibrant city that balances economic growth with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability.

Miri is located in the Malaysian state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo. The nearest airport is Miri Airport (MYY), which is well-connected with daily flights from major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, and Kuching. International travelers can reach Miri via connecting flights from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) or Kota Kinabalu International Airport. From the airport, taxis and ride-sharing services are available to take you into the city.

Miri offers various transportation options. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are widely available and convenient for short trips within the city. For a more local experience, you can use the public bus system, which connects major areas and attractions. Renting a car is also an option for those who wish to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace. Bicycles can be rented for short distances and are a popular choice for tourists looking to explore the city center.

The official currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Miri. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and currency exchange services can be found in major shopping centers and at the airport.

Miri is generally a safe city for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and always be vigilant of your surroundings. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so keep your belongings secure. Areas like the old town near the fish market have reported higher instances of petty theft, so exercise extra caution there.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Miri General Hospital and Columbia Asia Hospital Miri are the main medical facilities in the city. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Local police stations can provide assistance for lost items or other non-medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Lightweight, breathable clothing is advisable due to the tropical climate. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering homes or religious places. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Apa Khabar' (How are you?). A handshake is common but use your right hand. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies. Don't refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Miri like a local, visit the Tamu Muhibbah market for fresh produce and local crafts. Explore Canada Hill for panoramic views of the city and visit the Petroleum Museum to learn about Miri’s oil history. Engage with locals at the local coffee shops (kopitiam) where you can enjoy traditional Malaysian breakfast. Don't miss out on the seafood at Tanjong Lobang, which is popular among locals.