There will no longer be a lively Gong Xi Bazaar to visit during Chinese New Year in Miri.
A temporary farewell to a New Year tradition, and a new chapter in Miri’s urban development.
Did you know?
The “Miri Gong Xi Bazaar,” which has accompanied the people of Miri for 25 years of Chinese New Year celebrations, has officially been announced to be cancelled in 2026.
Since its launch in 2000, this annual event held before the Lunar New Year had become a must-visit festive market for returning hometown visitors and tourists. However, due to several unavoidable factors, the event has been forced to press the pause button.
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Why Was It Cancelled?
According to the official statement, the main reasons include:
1) Venue Coordination Difficulties
During the preparation process, the organisers spent several months coordinating with multiple government agencies regarding venue arrangements, which resulted in:
• Delays in招商 and stall rental arrangements
• Poor response to stall rental bookings
• Serious impact on the overall preparation schedule
2) Full-Scale Construction at the Original Venue
The areas previously used to host the bazaar, including:
• The old Municipal Council building
• The old Resident’s Office building
• The surrounding large parking areas
will be fully committed to the construction of the Fudan Southeast Asia Institute of Integrative Medicine – Miri Campus.
As the project involves multiple government departments and private entities, and due to safety considerations, the venue will no longer be suitable for hosting large-scale events in 2026.
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Is This the End, or a New Beginning?
Miri City Council and the Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce expressed:
Deep regret and sincere apologies to the public.
The Gong Xi Bazaar was not just a commercial event, but also an important symbol of Miri’s Chinese New Year culture. It brought more than just excitement:
• A strong sense of community
• Economic vitality
• Tourism appeal
• Festive memories
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Miri Is Changing, and the City Is Upgrading
The suspension of the bazaar also symbolises that Miri is entering a new phase of urban development.
The arrival of a major medical institute, old town redevelopment and infrastructure upgrades are quietly reshaping Miri’s city landscape.
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Not an End, But a Transformation
The cancellation of the Miri Gong Xi Bazaar is not the end, but a reflection of the city’s transformation.
Perhaps one day, it will return in a brand-new form.
Which memories of the Gong Xi Bazaar will you miss the most?
Do you think there may be other reasons behind the cancellation?
Don’t worry — Miri Times Square may still host a Year of the Horse Chinese New Year bazaar.
