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.

⸻

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.

⸻

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.

⸻

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.

⸻

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.

⸻

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.

⸻

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

⸻

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.

⸻

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

⸻

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.

⸻

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.

⸻

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.

⸻

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.

⸻

Eligible Discounts

Senior Citizens (60 years and above)

* RM175

OKU (Persons with Disabilities)

* Free of charge

⸻

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.

⸻

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

⸻

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.

⸻

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.

If IKEA were to open a store in Miri, it would be a major milestone not only for the city but also for Northern Sarawak. As one of the world’s most recognized furniture and home furnishing brands, IKEA does far more than sell furniture—it often becomes a catalyst for economic activity, consumer spending, and urban development.

However, like any major investment, it would bring both benefits and challenges.

⸻

1. Positive Impacts: Boosting Consumer Activity and Business Growth

Attracting Shoppers from Across the Region

Today, residents of Northern Sarawak who want to shop at IKEA usually need to travel to:

• Kuala Lumpur
• Penang
• Johor Bahru
• Potentially Kuching in the future

If IKEA were available in Miri:

• Residents could save time and travel costs
• Consumers from Miri, Bintulu, Sibu, Limbang, and surrounding areas could shop locally
• It could also attract customers from Brunei

Weekend visitor numbers would likely increase significantly.

⸻

Bringing More Bruneian Spending into Miri

Brunei has a relatively high purchasing power compared to many neighboring regions.

Many Bruneians already visit Miri for:

• Shopping
• Dining
• Entertainment

An IKEA store could become a new attraction, encouraging:

• More cross-border shopping trips
• Higher family spending
• Increased traffic to nearby commercial areas

This would be a major boost for the local retail sector.

⸻

Creating New Jobs

A large IKEA store typically requires:

• Retail staff
• Warehouse personnel
• Logistics workers
• Restaurant employees
• Administrative and management teams

Beyond direct employment, other industries could benefit:

• Transportation services
• Renovation and interior design businesses
• Furniture assembly services
• Cleaning and security services

This could create hundreds of employment opportunities.

⸻

Enhancing Miri’s Reputation

The arrival of a global brand such as IKEA could:

• Increase Miri’s visibility on the regional map
• Strengthen investor confidence
• Improve the city’s reputation as a commercial hub

It could also encourage other international brands to consider investing in Miri.

⸻

Supporting Nearby Businesses

Visitors rarely go to IKEA for furniture alone.

Many also:

• Dine at restaurants
• Visit nearby shops
• Stay overnight in hotels

As a result, businesses that could benefit include:

• Shopping malls
• Restaurants and cafés
• Hotels
• Service providers

The economic impact would extend beyond IKEA itself.

⸻

2. Potential Challenges

Stronger Competition for Local Furniture Stores

One of IKEA’s key strengths is its combination of:

• Competitive pricing
• Wide product selection
• Strong brand recognition

This could create pressure on smaller local furniture retailers.

Businesses that fail to differentiate themselves through:

• Custom-made products
• Personalized service
• Higher-quality offerings

may find it harder to compete.

⸻

Increased Traffic and Infrastructure Pressure

A major IKEA outlet could bring:

• More vehicles on the road
• Parking shortages during peak periods
• Increased congestion on surrounding roads

This may require infrastructure upgrades and improved traffic planning.

⸻

Consumer Spending Becoming More Concentrated

As shoppers gravitate toward a large destination retailer:

• Smaller businesses could experience reduced foot traffic
• Shopping habits may change
• Commercial activity could become concentrated around a single area

This is a challenge often seen when large international retailers enter smaller markets.

⸻

3. Impact on Property and Urban Development

Rising Property Values

Large-scale investments often increase demand for nearby properties.

Possible effects include:

• Higher commercial property values
• Increased shop rental rates
• Greater demand for residential housing

Investors may begin acquiring land and property in anticipation of future growth.

⸻

Encouraging New Commercial Development

If IKEA were built in a developing area:

• New housing projects could emerge
• Additional retail outlets may follow
• New business districts could form

The surrounding area could eventually become a secondary commercial center for the city.

⸻

4. The Big Question: Is the Market Large Enough?

While many people would love to see IKEA in Miri, there are practical considerations.

Population Size

IKEA stores generally require a large customer base.

Key questions include:

• Is Miri’s population sufficient?
• Can Northern Sarawak generate enough demand?
• Will Bruneian shoppers contribute enough sales volume?

These factors would heavily influence IKEA’s decision.

⸻

Logistics and Supply Chain Costs

Miri’s location in Northern Sarawak presents logistical challenges.

Operating a large IKEA store would require:

• Extensive warehousing facilities
• Reliable transportation networks
• Efficient supply chain management

These costs could be higher than in larger Malaysian cities.

⸻

Conclusion

If IKEA were to open in Miri, the benefits could extend far beyond furniture shopping.

From job creation and increased investment to stronger retail activity and greater attraction for Bruneian consumers, IKEA could become a significant economic driver for the city.

At the same time, challenges such as increased competition, traffic congestion, and questions about market size would need to be addressed.

Ultimately, an IKEA in Miri would represent more than just a furniture store—it could signal Miri’s evolution into a stronger regional commercial destination.

What do you think? Would an IKEA in Miri transform the city, or would the market simply be too small to support it?

The post What Would Happen If Miri Had an IKEA? first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

Merdeka Mall in Miri has long been a symbol of ambition and missed opportunity in the city’s retail history. Once envisioned as a major shopping destination, the building now stands largely quiet. But what if it were given a completely new life? Imagine Merdeka Mall being transformed into an IKEA store—one of the world’s most recognisable home furnishing brands.

This thought experiment reveals how dramatically it could reshape Miri’s economy, lifestyle, and even its regional importance.

A New Identity for an Old Space

If IKEA were to take over Merdeka Mall, the first major change would be a complete redesign of the interior layout. Unlike traditional malls filled with many small tenants, IKEA operates as a large, single-brand experience store.

The current structure of Merdeka Mall—spacious corridors, multiple floors, and large open areas—could actually suit IKEA’s concept quite well. The building could be reconfigured into:

* A showroom pathway (“the IKEA journey”)
* Fully designed room displays
* A marketplace section for accessories and home essentials
* A warehouse-style self-collection zone

The mall’s large footprint would allow IKEA to create a complete “maze-like” shopping experience, something the brand is famous for worldwide.

Economic Impact on Miri

The arrival of IKEA in Miri would be a game-changer for the local economy. It would likely transform Merdeka Mall into a regional retail magnet, attracting visitors not just from Miri, but also from Bintulu, Brunei, and northern Sabah.

Key potential impacts include:

* Job creation: Hundreds of jobs in retail, logistics, and operations
* Tourism boost: “IKEA tourism” would bring shoppers from across Borneo
* Supply chain growth: Local furniture makers and contractors could become suppliers
* Property value increase: Surrounding areas like Morsjaya would likely see rising demand

(If you see this post, someone copied it from MiriCitySharing. Please do not copy, write your own article)

Miri could evolve from a regional city into a stronger retail hub in northern Sarawak.

Changes to Lifestyle and Shopping Culture

An IKEA store is not just a shop—it is an experience. If Merdeka Mall became IKEA, shopping habits in Miri would change significantly.

Families would spend weekends walking through fully designed home setups, couples would explore ideas for future homes, and young adults would be introduced to affordable interior design concepts.

Popular IKEA features such as the cafeteria serving Swedish meatballs could become a new lifestyle attraction. For many residents, visiting the store would become both a shopping trip and a leisure activity.

Infrastructure and Traffic Considerations

Such a transformation would also bring challenges. Increased traffic along the Miri–Bintulu Road would require upgrades in road access, parking capacity, and public transport connectivity.

Merdeka Mall’s parking area might need expansion or redesign to handle peak weekend crowds. If successful, the site could become one of the busiest commercial zones in southern Miri.

Challenges of the Idea

While the concept is exciting, several realistic challenges exist:

* IKEA typically chooses locations based on large population catchments
* Supply chain logistics in East Malaysia can be complex
* Import and distribution costs may affect pricing competitiveness
* Market size in Miri alone may not fully support a large standalone IKEA store

Because of these factors, such a transformation would likely require regional planning rather than being a standalone decision for Miri alone.

A Symbol of Reinvention

Even if IKEA never comes to Merdeka Mall, the idea itself highlights an important theme: transformation.

Merdeka Mall represents a space with strong potential. With the right vision, investment, and strategy, it could still be repurposed into something meaningful for the community—whether as a retail hub, mixed development, or even a new lifestyle centre.

In this imagined future, Merdeka Mall is no longer remembered as a “dead mall,” but as a place reborn—turning nostalgia into opportunity, and an old structure into a new regional landmark.

Images for illustration purposes.

The post If Merdeka Mall Miri Becomes an IKEA Store first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

Performances will be held Monday to Wednesday at 8:00 PM, while Friday to Sunday there will be two shows daily at 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

Opening Day (22 May): 8:00 PM only
Last Day (21 June): 4:00 PM only

Please note that there will be no shows on Thursdays, including 11 June and 18 June. Show duration is approximately 2 hours.

Public Holidays (2026): 27, 31 May & 1, 2, 17 June
School Holidays (2026): 23 May – 7 June

During weekdays that fall within Public & School Holiday periods, showtimes will follow the Public & School Holiday pricing structure.

Seating is available in various zones including Rear Seat, Hot Seat, VIP, Elite, and Grand Seat, with different prices for children and adults.

Get your tickets here:https://www.greatbritishcircus.com/buy-tickets/miri

Venue Directions
Boulevard Shopping Mall (Car Park C)
Lot 2528, Boulevard Commercial Centre
98000 Miri, Sarawak

The post 2026 Great British Circus Miri Tickets Price & Seatings first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

The British circus has departed from Sibu today and is expected to arrive in Miri within the next few days. The circus will be open for shows starting this Friday.

The performances will run in Miri from 22 May to 21 June 2026.

Great British Circus Malaysia is set to bring an exciting water-themed circus show, Legend of the Sea, inspired by ocean adventures and mysterious stories. The production features a spectacular water stage and delivers thrilling, world-class circus performances filled with excitement and entertainment.

Highlights of the show include:
Aerial acrobatics and stunts
High-flying trapeze acts
Comedy clown interactions
Air acts and aerial performances
A variety of thrilling circus attractions

Performers from around the world will take the stage inside a giant circus tent, offering an unforgettable live entertainment experience for both adults and children.

📍 Miri
📅 22 May – 21 June 2026

The post Great British Circus Malaysia is Heading to Miri first appeared on Miri City Sharing.

The new space is just a few steps away from the previous location, still within the same building.

As the Jimlog lobby is currently under construction, temporary business hours will be in place for this month.

Once the construction work is completed, normal operating hours will resume.

Temporary Business Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:30am – 6:00pm
Saturday: 9:30am – 9:30pm
(Images: themakercafe)

The post The Maker Cafe is back in Miri City! first appeared on Miri City Sharing.