You know how many Sarawakians returning from Kuala Lumpur often buy bags of Gardenia bread at the airport before flying home?

That familiar scene of passengers carrying multiple loaves of Gardenia bread back to Sarawak may soon become a thing of the past.

Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad (KTC Berhad), together with Yayasan Sarawak, has announced a strategic partnership to establish Gardenia Bakeries (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, with an investment of RM30 million to build Gardenia’s first manufacturing plant in Sarawak.

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Gardenia Sarawak Factory — Project Highlights

Project Overview

• Investment: RM30 million
• Location: Kota Samarahan, Sarawak
• Land size: Approximately 7.56 acres
• Expected operation: 2027
• Strategic partners: KTC Berhad × Yayasan Sarawak (through Sanjung Etika Sdn Bhd)
• Estimated job creation: Around 500 new employment opportunities

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What will change?

Fresher Gardenia products

Previously, most Gardenia products sold in Sarawak were transported from Peninsular Malaysia.

With a local manufacturing facility, bread can be produced closer to consumers, reducing transportation time and improving freshness.

More stable supply

The new factory is expected to strengthen Gardenia’s supply chain in Sarawak, ensuring better product availability and reducing reliance on long-distance deliveries.

Introducing “Gardenia Sarawak Edition”

The partnership also plans to introduce exclusive Gardenia products and special packaging inspired by Sarawak’s unique culture, heritage and local identity.

Supporting local industries

The factory aims to maximise the use of local raw materials where possible, creating more economic opportunities within Sarawak.

Modern food manufacturing facility

The new plant will use advanced production technology while maintaining Gardenia’s quality standards, including food safety requirements and halal certification preparation.

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Economic Impact

1. Create around 500 new job opportunities for Sarawakians.
2. Strengthen Sarawak’s food manufacturing sector.
3. Create opportunities for local suppliers and businesses.
4. Improve the state’s food supply chain.
5. Encourage more investment in Kota Samarahan.
6. Keep more economic value within Sarawak.
7. Support education and talent development initiatives through Yayasan Sarawak.

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Why is this a big deal?

Gardenia has long been one of Malaysia’s most popular bread brands. For many East Malaysians, buying Gardenia bread at Kuala Lumpur International Airport before flying home has become a familiar tradition.

With Sarawak’s first Gardenia factory, residents can look forward to fresher products, more reliable supply, and possibly even unique Sarawak-inspired flavours.

In the future, instead of Sarawakians bringing Gardenia back from Kuala Lumpur, visitors from Peninsular Malaysia might be bringing home the special “Gardenia Sarawak Edition” as a souvenir.

What Sarawak-inspired Gardenia flavour would you like to see? Pandan? Sarawak black pepper? Or kaya coconut?

The post Gardenia Sarawak Factory – Expected to Be Operational in 2027 first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

Kuching is set to welcome back its annual food extravaganza!

The Kuching Festival Food Fair 2026 will be held from 22 July to 16 August 2026 at the MBKS Square, in conjunction with Sarawak Day on 22 July. This year, the festival will make history with its longest-ever duration of 26 days, opening daily from 5.00pm to 11.00pm.

The event will feature 323 food and commercial stalls, offering visitors a chance to explore the diverse flavours of Sarawak and beyond. A total of 803 stall applications were received, showing the strong popularity and demand for participation in this yearly celebration.

Visitors can look forward to a wide variety of local favourites, including Sarawak Laksa, Kolo Mee, grilled chicken wings, oyster omelette, seafood dishes, barbecue snacks, traditional kuih and creative desserts. From authentic Sarawak flavours to modern fusion creations, the festival promises something for everyone.

This year’s Kuching Festival Food Fair will also have an international touch, with representatives from more than 30 countries and regions expected to showcase their unique cuisines. Food representatives from UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) gastronomy cities are also expected to participate, while international chefs will be invited to Sarawak for special events and charity dinners.

More than just a food event, the festival provides an important platform for local entrepreneurs and food businesses to promote their brands, introduce new creations and connect with customers. It also plays a role in boosting tourism, the food industry and the local economy.

The 2026 Kuching Festival Food Fair is set to be a celebration of food, culture, creativity and community, highlighting Kuching’s reputation as one of Sarawak’s top food destinations.

If you are visiting Kuching this July and August, this 26-day food carnival is definitely an event not to be missed.

Which food are you most excited to try at Kuching Festival Food Fair 2026?

The post Kuching Festival Food Fair 2026 Returns with 323 Stalls Over 26 Days first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

Miri food lovers, get ready!
A fun-filled food and festive experience is coming your way —Memory Lane 3.0 / Jalan Kenangan 3.0

This time, head over to Emart Riam Parking for a vibrant food festival featuring more than 200 food options waiting for you to explore!

From local favourites and traditional dishes to a variety of delicious creations, there will be something to satisfy every craving. Bring your family, friends and loved ones to enjoy the lively atmosphere and create wonderful memories together.

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Event Highlights

Over 200 Food Choices
• A wide selection of local delights and specialty dishes
• Something for every taste and every age group

Festive Food Experience
• Enjoy a fun outing with family and friends
• Discover new flavours while soaking in the festive vibes

Food Exploration Journey
• Eat, explore and enjoy a variety of delicious offerings
• Create unforgettable moments with your loved ones

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Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

• A must-visit food gathering in Miri
• A one-stop destination for food lovers
• Perfect for families, friends and food hunters
• Experience the joy of food, memories and celebrations

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Memory Lane 3.0 is more than just a food festival —
it’s a celebration filled with delicious food, fun moments and unforgettable memories!

8 – 12 July 2026
📍 Emart Riam Parking, Miri

Don’t forget to drop by Jalan Kenangan 3.0 and enjoy the festivities yourself!

See you there!

What food are you most excited to try?

Images: Emart Riam 24 Hours

The post Jalan Kenangan 3.0 Food Fest is now in Miri City first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

Have you already spotted the signage?
The countdown has begun, and US Pizza is currently in the final stages of preparation and will be welcoming customers very soon!

US Pizza (US Pizza Malaysia) is a homegrown Malaysian pizza chain known for offering pizzas tailored to local tastes, combining classic Western-style pizza concepts with flavors that Malaysians love. With outlets across the country, it has become a popular choice among families and young people thanks to its affordable pricing and wide variety of options.

Besides classic favorites like cheese, Hawaiian, and spicy chicken pizzas, the menu often features localized flavor combinations as well. Overall, it positions itself as a budget-friendly, casual, and sharing-oriented pizza brand, making it perfect for gatherings with friends or family takeaways.

Soon, you won’t need to travel far in Miri just to enjoy pizza — there will be another great local option right here in town!

Location:
MDS Family Hub
Parcel No. T003, Lot 7882 & 7883 of Parent Lot 7002, Block 5, Kuala Baram Land District, Miri, Malaysia, 98000

Miri folks, get ready to try it out! Have you tried this pizza brand before?

The post New US Pizza is Opening in Miri City first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

Friends in Miri, East Malaysia have finally been waiting for this day—
Shuyi Grass Jelly & Tea has officially arrived in Miri!
No need to fly to West Malaysia anymore; you can now enjoy it right here locally.

The menu has even more variety than expected,
featuring their classic grass jelly desserts, fresh fruit teas, yogurt drinks, milk teas, and more—every option is tempting enough to try

Shuyi Grass Jelly & Tea Miri is located near Kingwood Hotel, opposite Imperial Hotel in Miri.

The post Shuyi Grass Jelly & Tea now Open in Miri first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

If you’re in the food and beverage business, arts and crafts, tourism, education, health and wellness, professional services, or event experiences, this might be an opportunity worth checking out.

This isn’t just another regular bazaar.

The Miri International Cultures Bazaar 2026 will be held alongside the International Conference of Responsible Tourism and Hospitality (ICRTH 2026), bringing together both local visitors and conference participants.

One of the biggest highlights?

Miri’s first-ever hot air balloon experience.

Visitors will have the chance to ride a hot air balloon during designated sessions throughout the event. This unique attraction alone is expected to draw significant crowds and become one of the most talked-about activities in town.

Other attractions include:

• 5,000 free drinks giveaway
• Blind Box Wall with 500 free gifts
• Zumba sessions
• Pickleball friendly matches
• Children’s fashion show
• Podcast sharing sessions
• Cultural performances and interactive activities

The event is also expected to attract conference delegates and high-spending visitors, with more than RM20,000 worth of cash vouchers available for redemption.

For businesses looking to increase brand awareness, promote products, connect with potential customers, or test the market through a booth setup, this could be a great opportunity.

📍 Miri International Cultures Bazaar 2026
📅 7–9 July 2026
📍 Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club

If you’ve been looking for an event with strong foot traffic, public attention, and good exposure potential, this could be the right time to set up a booth and showcase your business.

Interested vendors can contact the organizers for more information and registration details. (6 011-1560 1226)

Do you think Miri’s first-ever hot air balloon attraction will be the biggest crowd-puller of the event?

The post Miri Set to Launch Its First-Ever Hot Air Balloon Experience! first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

However, AirBorneo has now clarified that it has not submitted an application for the Kuching–Bangkok route, and no such service has been formally confirmed at this stage.

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How Did the News Start?

Earlier, Thailand’s English-language newspaper The Nation reported that, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), AirBorneo had been allocated airport slots for a proposed:

• Kuching ⇄ Bangkok Suvarnabhumi route
• 14 flights per week

The report quickly sparked discussions, with many believing that direct flights between Kuching and Bangkok were about to become a reality.

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What Did AirBorneo Say?

AirBorneo explained that while destinations across the region are part of the airline’s long-term network expansion plans, the Bangkok route has not yet reached the application stage.

The airline confirmed that:

• No application has been submitted
• No route has been formally approved
• No official announcement has been made

AirBorneo also cautioned the public against treating any route, frequency, or flight schedule as confirmed until all regulatory processes have been completed.

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International Routes Require Approval

According to AirBorneo, any future international service must go through several stages before it can be launched, including:

• Regulatory approvals
• Aviation authority clearances
• Operational assessments
• Commercial planning and route evaluation

Only after these processes are completed can a route be officially announced.

As a result, there is currently no confirmed launch date, schedule, or ticket pricing for a Kuching–Bangkok service.

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Current Focus Remains on Existing Operations

AirBorneo stated that its immediate priority is to stabilise and strengthen its current intra-Borneo operations.

Following service disruptions earlier this month, the airline is focusing on:

• Improving operational reliability
• Strengthening existing routes
• Enhancing passenger experience

The airline said it is committed to getting the fundamentals right before pursuing further expansion.

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Could Bangkok Still Happen in the Future?

While AirBorneo has denied that the Bangkok route is currently confirmed, it has not ruled out the possibility for the future.

The airline reiterated that destinations across the region remain part of its long-term planning and that any confirmed expansion plans will be announced through official channels.

In other words:

A direct Kuching–Bangkok flight is not confirmed yet — but it may still be a possibility in the future.

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If AirBorneo launches its first international route, where would you like it to fly?

Bangkok?
Singapore?
Jakarta?
Hong Kong?
Taipei?

Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post Kuching–Bangkok Direct Flights? AirBorneo Says No Application Has Been Submitted Yet first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

According to the latest Winter Schedule information published by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), Air Borneo has been granted approval to operate a route between Kuching (Malaysia) and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Route details:

• Kuching (KCH) ⇄ Bangkok (BKK)
• 14 flights per week
• Around 2 return flights per day

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Big change: no more transit via Kuala Lumpur

Currently, most travellers from Sarawak heading to Bangkok need to:

• Fly from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur
• Then connect from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok

This not only takes more time but also adds inconvenience due to transit.

If a direct Kuching–Bangkok route becomes available:

• Significant reduction in travel time
• Much more convenient journeys
• Stronger tourism flow between Sarawak and Thailand

Based on estimated distance, a direct flight would take around 2 hours and 40 minutes, saving a considerable amount of time compared to connecting via Kuala Lumpur.

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However, still not officially confirmed

Although CAAT has published the approved schedule, Air Borneo has not yet made any official announcement.

Key details still pending include:

• Official launch date
• Flight schedules
• Ticket pricing
• Booking availability

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Part of the Winter Schedule

This route is part of the aviation Winter Schedule:

• Starting end of October 2026
• Running until end of March 2027

The exact inaugural flight date is still awaiting official confirmation from the airline.

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What does this mean for Sarawak?

If successfully launched, this would be one of Air Borneo’s most significant international routes.

It could further support:

• Tourism growth
• Business connections
• International connectivity for Sarawak

For frequent travellers to Thailand for shopping, food, or leisure trips, this would be very welcome news.

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If Air Borneo really launches a direct Kuching–Bangkok flight,

what do you think is a reasonable one-way ticket price?

Share your thoughts below.

Latest updates from AirBorneo

Direct Kuching–Bangkok Flights? Not Yet, Says AirBorneo

The post Air Borneo Kuching–Bangkok Direct Flight is really coming! first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

We often take essential resources such as water for granted, only truly realizing their importance and urgency when unexpected disruptions occur.

Behind every damaged main water pipe is a group of workers who continue to battle in extremely challenging conditions. Amid muddy terrain, standing water, and constantly changing weather, they work against the clock to restore the city’s water supply system as quickly as possible.

The on-site footage from Sarawak Water provides a genuine record of the entire process—no filters, no special effects, and no enhancements. It reveals the real working conditions of frontline personnel operating in mud and flooded areas, as well as their daily efforts to ensure the restoration of water supply.

It is understood that since repair works began last Friday, some workers have had only about an hour of brief rest before returning to duty. Others, during shift breaks, have rested directly on mud-stained clothing, simply to regain enough strength to continue working.

They are not doing this job for praise or attention, even though occasional criticism or one-sided remarks may arise from the public. Every worker on site follows established procedures and carries out their respective roles, fully engaged from the moment machinery is deployed.

Their goal has always been clear—to complete the repair works as quickly as possible and ensure uninterrupted water supply for the community.

Under more than 24 hours of continuous heat, humidity, and intermittent rain, these frontline workers remain on duty, quietly enduring both physical exhaustion and harsh environmental conditions.

Respect is extended to all personnel involved in the repair efforts. It is their dedication that keeps the city’s daily life functioning.

Thank you for being the unsung heroes safeguarding Miri’s water supply system.

Images: Sarawak Water

The post Miri Water Crisis: Heroes Restoring Flow in the Mud first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

Great news has just been announced!

From now on, Malaysian citizens renewing their international passports can opt for a 10-year validity period, instead of the previous 5-year renewal cycle.

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1. Latest Passport Fees

10-Year Validity Passport

* Adults (18–59 years old): RM350

This new option is more convenient in the long run and helps reduce the hassle of frequent renewals.

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Eligible Discounts

Senior Citizens (60 years and above)

* RM175

OKU (Persons with Disabilities)

* Free of charge

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2. When Does It Take Effect?

According to the federal government announcement, the new policy officially took effect on June 3.

However, as systems and administrative processes still need time to adjust, the Immigration Department and UTC centers may require some time before fully implementing the 10-year passport option nationwide.

At the moment, applicants renewing their passports may not immediately receive a 10-year validity passport, depending on the location and system readiness.

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3. Who Benefits the Most?

Frequent travelers

* No need for frequent passport renewals

Business professionals

* Saves time and reduces administrative hassle

Families

* Easier long-term travel planning

Students and overseas workers

* Avoids mid-term passport renewal issues

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4. Important Notes

Although the passport validity has been extended to 10 years, it must still be carefully kept.

If your passport is lost, damaged, or requires updates to personal information, you will still need to follow the standard replacement procedures.

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Summary

For Malaysians who travel often, the 10-year passport validity is a very practical and convenient improvement.

For just RM350, adults can now enjoy a full decade of passport validity, making travel planning much easier.

Hopefully, all UTC branches and Immigration offices will fully implement this smoothly soon!

Would you choose the 10-year passport when renewing yours?

The post Malaysia Passport Renewal Now Eligible for 10-Year Validity! first appeared on Miri City Sharing.