Miri

When planning a trip to Miri, you are choosing a journey to the second-largest city in the state of Sarawak, located on the picturesque coast of Borneo island in Malaysia. This lively oil industry hub, neighbouring unique nature reserves, attracts tourists with a blend of modern comfort and tropical exoticism. Miri can be reached by various means: the city boasts a well-developed airport and is connected by a network of roads to neighbouring regions and Brunei.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city is to take a flight to Miri Airport (MYY). This aviation hub serves millions of passengers annually and has good connections with major cities in the region, making it the main air gateway for travellers.

If a direct flight is not possible, you can consider routes via nearby cities with airports. For example, Marudi (MUR) is just 27 km away, and the international airport in the city of Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN) is located 115 km away, offering alternative connection options.

It is impossible to get directly to Miri by train, as the city lacks a railway station. The railway infrastructure in this part of Borneo island is not developed for passenger transport, so tourists have to rely on other modes of transport.

Nearby settlements, such as Marudi or the capital of Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan, also do not have railway connections with Miri. To plan your trip, it is recommended to choose air travel or road transport.

Although detailed information on specific bus routes is currently unavailable, bus services remain a popular and affordable way to travel around the state of Sarawak. Intercity buses usually connect Miri with key cities in the region and neighbouring Brunei, offering travellers a budget-friendly travel option.

Typically, buses depart from the main city terminal. It is recommended to check the current schedule and ticket availability on-site or through local transport services before your planned trip.

Travelling by car allows you to plan your schedule independently and enjoy views of the tropical nature. A short trip from the city of Marudi will take about 1 hour; the distance is approximately 31 km.

A longer but interesting route runs from the city of Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei). You will have to cover about 154 km, which will take approximately 2 hours on the road; however, it is worth allowing extra time for border formalities.

To make your stay in Miri as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations considering local features.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is equatorial, hot, and humid year-round. Bring light clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen), comfortable walking shoes, and definitely a raincoat or umbrella in case of sudden downpours.
2. Transport: Public transport can be irregular. To move around the city, it is most convenient to use taxi-hailing apps (such as Grab) or rent a car if you plan trips into nature.
3. Finance: The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit. Cards are accepted in hotels and large shopping malls, but always keep cash handy for markets and small cafes.
4. Health and Safety: Drinking tap water is not recommended; please buy bottled water. Use repellents, especially when visiting parks and reserves, to protect yourself from insects.
5. Communication: The official language is Malay, but English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism sector, so communication problems should not arise.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary to remove shoes when entering a private home or a place of worship (mosque or temple). Money or objects should be passed only with the right hand, as the left is considered "unclean".
7. What to Avoid: Do not loudly discuss politics or religion in public places. Also, avoid swimming on wild beaches without lifeguards due to possible strong currents.
8. Extra Tip: Be sure to visit Canada Hill to see the first oil well, the "Grand Old Lady", and enjoy a stunning sunset over the city.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and fully focus on exploring the beauty and culture of this amazing Malaysian city.