Miri Bulatan Park

If you find yourself in the state of Sarawak, be sure to drop by one of the most charming spots in Miri — Bulatan Park (Taman Bulatan Miri). This historic public park has become a true green oasis, where natural tranquility harmoniously blends with the active urban rhythm.

Miri Bulatan Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This popular location in Malaysia is an expansive space featuring manicured landscapes, artificial lakes, and shaded alleys. The park is widely considered the premier spot for family recreation, attracting both locals and travelers with its picturesque views and friendly atmosphere.

The architectural highlights of the park include a tall clock tower and its characteristic lion statues. Here, you can encounter various representatives of the local fauna: from unbothered turtles and massive catfish in the ponds to flocks of pigeons that are always happy to receive a treat from visitors.

For those planning a visit to Bulatan Park, it's helpful to have some basic contact information on hand. Please note that the park is a public space, so it does not have a dedicated tourist hotline; however, for organizational inquiries, you can contact the local runners' club.

Active recreation is the main reason many people visit this park. It boasts one of the longest jogging tracks in the region, stretching for 2.5 kilometers. It winds around scenic lakes, offering runners and fitness walkers inspiring views throughout the entire distance. For children, there is a modern playground that becomes a hub of fun on weekends.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, head to the central pond. Feeding the vibrant koi and slow-moving turtles is almost a mandatory ritual that brings joy to both adults and children. Photographers will appreciate the panoramic views of the water and the symbolic statues placed around the grounds, which look especially striking in the golden light of sunset.

For sports enthusiasts, there is a full-sized basketball court and even a specialized skate park. You can often find fitness groups practicing yoga or aerobics in the fresh air. And if you’re simply seeking quiet, you can always find a secluded bench in the shade of the trees to read a book to the sounds of nature.

This green zone is conveniently located at the Pujut roundabout, right next to the Boulevard Commercial Center. If you are staying in the Desa Seri residential area, the park is just a short walk away.

From the center of Miri, the easiest way to get here is by taxi or via the Grab mobile app, which works very well here. For those preferring public transport, there are bus stops within walking distance. Drivers can use the MCITI Suites hotel, located directly opposite the entrance, as a landmark.

For travelers arriving from Miri Airport, the drive takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Although the park has its own parking lot, be aware that it can get quite crowded during morning and evening peak hours with locals arriving for their workouts.

The history of Bulatan Park began in the early 1990s. This was a period of rapid development for Miri, and the local government sought to create a recreational zone for citizens that emphasized the importance of environmental sustainability amidst the urban sprawl.

One of the park's most recognizable features for a long time was its clock tower. In the mid-2000s, it operated with the support of the Orient company, delighting visitors with melodic chimes every hour. Over time, the mechanical movement wore out, and the old clock face was replaced with a modern digital LED display, which now serves as a familiar landmark for those exercising.

There is also a rather unusual story associated with the park: in late 2011, the peace of the local inhabitants was disturbed by an unexpected guest—a real crocodile was spotted in one of the lakes. The reptile was promptly caught by Civil Defence officers, and since then, safety in the park has been monitored particularly closely, with the territory patrolled around the clock.

Over the years, the park has expanded significantly. Today, it is more than just a public square; it is a vital sports hub and the home base of the famous Bulatan Park Runners Club. Its transformation from a simple park into a magnet for runners from across the state of Sarawak is a brilliant example of how urban spaces can change people's lifestyles.

To leisurely explore the entire area and soak in the atmosphere, most tourists find 1–2 hours sufficient. This is enough time to complete a circuit along the scenic path, take photos by the clock tower, and feed the inhabitants of the local ponds.

If you plan to visit the playground with children or want to have a proper family picnic on the grass, you should budget about 3 hours. Active travelers looking to test themselves on the long jogging track will also need a bit more time to finish their workout.

Bulatan Park welcomes guests at any time of day: it is open 24/7, including weekends and holidays. Special attention is paid to visitor safety, so the area is constantly patrolled by security, allowing for comfortable walks even late in the evening.

If you still have energy after strolling through the shaded alleys, the area surrounding the park offers several other interesting spots. Exploring nearby locations will help you better feel the rhythm of life in this district and get acquainted with the local leisure culture.