MIRI: Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries, and Performing Arts (Tourism), Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, and Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siaw have ventured into unexpected roles as guest performers in a newly released music video (MV) for the 2025 New Year song “Happy New Year”.
The festive MV officially launched on the evening of December 15 at Level 3, Exhibition Hall, Boulevard Shopping Mall, Jalan Pujut, prominently features both Ting and Yii as central figures.
Produced by C & L Singing Training Centre and EL Dance Art Studio, the video showcases Miri’s iconic tourist attractions as a backdrop to the lively celebration of the upcoming Year of the Snake.
The song unites four talented local singers – Stephen Chua Bing Gee, Lim Choon Liang, Liew Fui Ting, and Christabelle Chia Yuen En – who professionally recorded and mixed the track in Kuala Lumpur’s Bosh Production Studio.
The filming and editing were skillfully executed by Memory Studio while dancers from EL Dance Art Studio infused vibrancy into the production.
Reflecting on his involvement, Ting expressed pride in being part of the initiative, marking his first on-camera appearance.
“As Sarawak’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, I was truly honoured to be a part of this music video, which not only celebrates the New Year but also showcases Miri’s beautiful tourist attractions.
“This project aims to inspire optimism for the challenges ahead while promoting the unique charm of Miri’s natural and cultural heritage,” he remarked.
Ting emphasized the dual purpose of the MV as a tourism platform and a display of local talent.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to shine a spotlight on Miri’s beauty and culture, encourage more visitors to explore its attractions and foster greater appreciation for the region’s arts and music. Projects like this provide an excellent opportunity for local artists while nurturing the growth of Sarawak’s creative industries,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mayor Adam Yii stressed the significance of utilizing creative platforms to showcase Miri as a premier tourist destination.
“The music video ‘Happy New Year’ exudes festive spirit and energy, highlighting Miri’s rich cultural backdrop and natural scenery. It offers a delightful way to spread positivity and showcase Miri’s appeal to a broader audience,” he remarked.
Yii, who made his acting debut in the production, described the experience as challenging and enjoyable.
“Being part of the filming was a novel and exciting opportunity. It captured the celebratory essence of the New Year and the joy of family gatherings, which I believe will resonate with viewers. My aspiration is that this MV will convey the warmth and liveliness of Miri to people near and far,” he shared.
Filming spanned across Miri’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Miri City Council Building, Canada Hill, Coco Cabana Seahorse, Miri Beach, Miri Times Square, the Miri Waterfront, Tanjung Lobang Beach, and Taman Bulatan.
These stunning locations not only served as picturesque settings but also underscored Miri’s status as a cultural and natural gem in Sarawak.
The release of “Happy New Year” aligns with endeavours to promote Miri’s tourism and local creative industries.
Through music and imagery, the video conveys a message of unity, positivity, and hope as the city readies itself to embrace the Year of the Snake in 2025.
