MIRI: Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) Chairman, Datuk Dennis Ngau, has envisioned Miri becoming a cultural resort city on par with global destinations, anchored by the region’s unique traditions, food and festivals.
Speaking at the Dayak Association Miri’s (DAM’s) Cultural and Members’ Night on Friday, the Telang Usan Assemblyman said the city’s future lies in showcasing its indigenous heritage.
He hailed DAM for nurturing traditional dance and reviving Iban culture, urging other ethnic associations, including Orang Ulu groups, to do likewise.
“Since the time of our ancestors, culture has been part of daily life. It is who we are. What DAM is doing is breathing life into that identity,” Dennis told the audience.
“Every great resort city around the world thrives on cultural activities. If Miri wants to compete internationally, we must put culture at the heart of our tourism offering.”
He underscored culture as Sarawak’s most powerful tourism asset.
“We promote Sarawak across the globe as the gateway to Borneo,” he said.
“We are blessed with landscapes, rainforests, mountains, flora, fauna and most importantly, cultures that exist nowhere else in the world. That is our advantage.”
Dennis added that Sarawak’s year-long calendar of festivals and its distinctive food – from kasam (fermented meat) to daun ubi (tapioca leaves) – give visitors an experience they cannot find elsewhere.
“Tourists never come here and get bored. We have variety, authenticity and a story to tell,” he said.
Looking ahead, Dennis hoped DAM would establish a cultural centre of its own that could serve as a permanent showcase for visitors.
To support that ambition, he pledged RM10,000 to the association during the event.
DAM’s President, Penghulu Wilfred Mac, was also present at the celebration.
