Miri history

The history of the city of Miri, located in the Malaysian state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo, is inextricably linked with "black gold." Until the beginning of the 20th century, it was merely a small fishing settlement. Everything changed in 1910, when the Royal Dutch Shell company discovered oil here. This discovery became a turning point and the actual foundation of the modern city.

The key factor in the formation of Miri was specifically oil production. The first oil rig, named the "Grand Old Lady", was installed on Canada Hill and marked the beginning of rapid economic growth. Thanks to revenues from oil extraction and export, for which a special port was built, Miri quickly transformed from a village into a thriving city. By the 1920s, there were already more than 40 shops here, and in 1929, Miri became the administrative centre of the region.

The early development of the city was defined by the oil industry. It attracted a workforce to the region from all over Asia and other parts of the world, forming a unique multicultural society that persists to this day. In Miri, representatives of various ethnic groups live side by side, including Chinese, Malays, Ibans, and many others. The economic boom facilitated the rapid development of infrastructure, the construction of new districts, hotels, and shopping complexes, laying the foundation for Miri's future transformation into a tourism hub as well.

Key Dates in the History of Miri

The history of Miri, like many other cities on Borneo, is closely intertwined with natural resources and a colonial past. The main milestones of the city's development reflect its transformation from a small village into a modern industrial and tourist centre.

• 1910 — The Royal Dutch Shell company drilled the first oil well on Canada Hill, which became the starting point in the history of modern Miri and the beginning of the oil boom in the region.
• 1929 — Miri becomes the administrative centre of the Baram district, confirming its growing economic and political importance.
• December 16, 1941 — Japanese troops land in Miri, beginning an occupation that lasted until the end of World War II. The city and its oil fields became a strategic target.
• June 19, 1945 — Australian forces liberate Miri from Japanese occupation during the Borneo campaign.
• 1963 — Sarawak, including Miri, becomes part of the independent Federation of Malaysia.
• 1972 — Operations at the first oil well, the "Grand Old Lady," cease after more than 60 years of service.
• 1991 — Opening of the first university in Miri, a branch of Curtin University of Technology, marking the beginning of the city's development as an educational hub.
• May 20, 2005 — Miri officially receives city status, becoming the second town in the state of Sarawak to be awarded this title.

Stages of Formation and Development

The transformation of Miri from a humble fishing settlement into a thriving metropolis is a story of rapid industrialisation and prudent resource management. The development of the city within the nation of Malaysia can be divided into several key stages that have defined its modern appearance.

• 1910: The Beginning of the Oil Era. The discovery of oil on Canada Hill by Shell became the foundation of the city's economy. This event not only attracted foreign investment but also stimulated the first wave of urbanisation: the construction of roads, housing for workers, and a port for exporting raw materials.
• Post-War Reconstruction (Late 1940s). After the destruction of World War II, the city was practically rebuilt from scratch. During this period, the basic layout of the central streets was formed, and the first administrative buildings appeared, defining the structure of the old town.
• 1970s: Creation of the Gas Industry. The discovery of offshore natural gas fields in Lutong diversified the economy. Miri became not just an oil hub, but also a gas hub, leading to the construction of new industrial zones and an influx of qualified specialists.
• 1989: Development of Tourism and Logistics. The opening of a new airport allowed the city to position itself as the main gateway to the Gunung Mulu and Niah national parks. This decision kickstarted the development of the hotel business and service sector, reducing dependence on fossil fuel extraction.
• 1990s: Urban Expansion. Authorities began implementing large-scale projects to develop new territories, including the Miri City Fan project — a unique fan-shaped park complex that became a symbol of a new urban planning approach focused on residents' comfort.
• 1999: Educational Breakthrough. The opening of the Curtin University campus — the first foreign university campus in East Malaysia. This event turned the industrial city into an educational centre for the region, attracting students from all over the world and changing the cultural landscape.
• 2005: Granting of City Status. Miri officially received "city status," becoming the second such city in the state of Sarawak. In honour of this event, the "Resort City" concept was adopted, aimed at improving the urban environment, greening, and modernising the waterfronts.
• Modern Stage: Marina and Coastal Renovation. The implementation of the Marina ParkCity project on reclaimed land has radically changed the coastline. The appearance of modern residential complexes, a yacht club, and commercial centres by the water marks the transition to a modern service economy and elite housing.

The architectural appearance of Miri is a visual history of its rapid transformation from a fishing village into a modern, prosperous city. Since its development began only in the 20th century with the discovery of oil, you will not find Gothic or Renaissance styles here. Urban planning fully reflects the eras of economic growth associated with oil production and the subsequent development of tourism.

Early 20th Century: Colonial Functionality and First Shophouses

The first permanent structures in Miri appeared alongside the Shell company in the 1910s. These were simple, functional buildings in a colonial style, designed for industrial and administrative needs. At the same time, traditional Southeast Asian two- and three-story shophouses began to appear. Old shophouses, which can still be found in the city centre, are distinguished by their utilitarian nature: a shop or workshop was located on the ground floor, and living quarters on the second. Their architecture was adapted to the tropical climate and featured elements of both Chinese and Malay architecture.

Mid to Late 20th Century: Modernism and Economic Growth

Post-war reconstruction and the oil boom of the 1960s and 70s led to the appearance of modernist architecture in Miri. The city began to be built up with more modern concrete buildings featuring simple geometric shapes. During this period, new administrative complexes, schools, and residential districts were erected. The urban structure became more complex: the city expanded from a single centre, forming new commercial and residential areas for the growing population attracted by work in the oil industry.

Modern Stage: Postmodernism and "Resort City"

With the attainment of city status in 2005 and the proclamation of the "Resort City" concept, Miri's architectural landscape began to change actively. Modern high-rise buildings, hotels, and shopping centres appeared, with features of postmodernism and high-tech visible in their design. Striking examples of modern architecture include:

• Miri City Fan — an urban park with an amphitheatre, gardens, and a library, demonstrating modern approaches to organising public space.
• Pullman Miri Waterfront — one of the tallest hotels in the city, becoming a notable landmark on the waterfront and an example of modern high-rise architecture.
• Miri City Hall — a spectacular modern building symbolising the city's new status.
• Tua Pek Kong Temple — although a religious structure, its recent renovations have added bright, modern elements to the traditional Chinese temple design.

Today's Miri is an eclectic mix of old shophouses, modernist buildings from the middle of the last century, and gleaming modern complexes, reflecting its dynamic history and aspiration towards the future.

Notable People Connected to Miri

The history and culture of Miri have been enriched by the contributions of many individuals. From colonial administrators at the dawn of the oil era to modern figures in arts and sports — here are some of the key figures who have left their mark on the life of the city.

• Charles Hose (1863–1929)

  Role: British colonial administrator, ethnographer, and naturalist.
  Significance: As the Resident of the Baram region, Hose played a key role in the early development of Miri. It was he who mapped surface oil seepages and convinced the Anglo-Saxon Petroleum Company (later Shell) to begin exploration here. His efforts led to the discovery of oil in 1910, which became a turning point in the city's history.

• Josef Theodor Erb

  Role: Geologist for Royal Dutch Shell.
  Significance: Dr. Erb was the senior geologist who conducted a detailed survey of the area in 1909-1910. He identified the hill known today as Canada Hill as the ideal location for drilling the first well, which led to the historic discovery of oil.

• Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi (Dr.) George Chan Hong Nam

  Role: Politician, former Deputy Chief Minister of Sarawak.
  Significance: One of the most influential political figures in the modern history of Miri. He was the initiator and driving force behind the campaign to grant Miri city status, which was achieved on May 20, 2005. His work contributed to transforming Miri into a modern tourism and business hub.

• Watson Nyambek

  Role: Athlete, sprinter.
  Significance: A native of Miri known as "The Flying Dayak," Watson Nyambek held the Malaysian 100-metre sprint record for 18 years (from 1998 to 2016). He is one of the country's most celebrated athletes and the pride of his hometown.

• Zee Avi

  Role: Singer, songwriter, musician.
  Significance: Born and raised in Miri, Zee Avi gained international recognition for her unique musical style. She became one of the first Malaysian artists to achieve success on the global stage, making her a cultural ambassador and a source of inspiration for many in Malaysia and beyond.