The Grand Old Lady - Canada Hill

The Grand Old Lady (Canada Hill) is a prominent historical monument located atop a hill in the city of Miri. It represents the first oil well in Malaysia, which was drilled in 1901. This 30-meter steel derrick is not only a symbol of Sarawak's industrial past but also a popular viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of the coastline and city districts.

The Grand Old Lady (Canada Hill). Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Today, the site functions as an open-air museum complex. Next to the legendary derrick is the modern Petroleum Museum, where visitors can learn about "black gold" extraction technologies and see unique artifacts, including ancient fossils millions of years old. The hill, known as Canada Hill, has become a favorite destination for those who appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty.

Beyond its historical value, the site is famous for its atmosphere. It features the famous “Miri” sign, which has become the city's signature photo spot. Visitors come here to stroll along scenic trails, go hiking, or simply sit on benches and watch the sun slowly sink into the South China Sea.

If you need to clarify information about special events or have questions regarding the museum complex's operation, you can use the official contact details. The Grand Old Lady and the surrounding area are managed by the Sarawak tourism authorities.

There is something for everyone on Canada Hill. The main draw for tourists is the opportunity to capture panoramic shots of Miri and the ocean coast. It gets especially lively before sunset, as many families arrive to snag the best spots near the Petroleum Museum and watch the sky turn golden over Tanjong Lobang beach.

For active travelers, there are dedicated hiking trails. The paths lead through forested areas and open sections of the hill, offering moderate walks lasting about 40–45 minutes. This is a great way to experience the nature of Borneo without leaving the city. Additionally, there is a jogging track along the top of the hill that is actively used by locals.

The Petroleum Museum is also a must-visit. Inside, you will find interactive exhibits, models of drilling platforms, and an earthquake simulator that appeals to both adults and children. The grounds feature numerous photo zones, including the Grand Old Lady derrick itself and the large city name sign, which serves as a classic backdrop for souvenir photos.

The easiest way to reach the Grand Old Lady from Miri city center is by taxi or via popular regional ride-hailing services. The drive takes only 5–10 minutes along a winding but well-maintained road leading to the hilltop. If you are coming directly from Miri Airport, the journey by car will take about 15–20 minutes.

For outdoor enthusiasts, walking to the top is also an option. From the central part of the city, the walk to the summit of Canada Hill takes about 20 minutes. It is a pleasant route that gradually reveals the city panorama. At the top, near the Petroleum Museum, there is a spacious free parking lot, which is convenient for those with rental vehicles.

Public buses reach the foot of the hill, but to get to the very top, tourists usually take a taxi or walk. Navigator coordinates: 4.3888109° N, 113.9950764° E.

The history of the Grand Old Lady began in 1901, when Shell started drilling the first exploratory well in this area. At that time, the cable-tool drilling method was used, and the derrick itself was constructed from wood and steel. Official "black gold" production began on December 22, 1910, marking the transformation of a small fishing village into a modern industrial hub.

This well served the region faithfully for over six decades until it was finally decommissioned in 1972. During its years of operation, it fueled an entire industry, becoming the foundation of Sarawak's economic prosperity. Interestingly, historical records indicate that locals knew about oil in the area a thousand years ago—ancient Chinese sources mentioned oil exports from Miri ports.

In 1973, the company handed the site over to the state government as a historical monument. A few months after the handover, a forest fire broke out on the hill, nearly destroying the structure, but thanks to the quick actions of firefighters, the "Old Lady" was saved. In 2005, the Petroleum Museum opened nearby, established with the support of industry giants Petronas and Shell Malaysia.

Today, Canada Hill (formerly known as Bukit Telaga Minyak) is a protected historical site. It serves not only as a reminder of the industrial past but also as a symbol of the region's resilience and development, carefully preserving the memory of the country's first steps in the energy industry.

For a standard tour of the Grand Old Lady, a visit to the Petroleum Museum, and some time at the viewpoints, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This gives you enough time to explore the exhibits, read the information boards, and take photos against the city panorama.

If you plan to hike the hill's trails or want to wait for the perfect sunset shot, you should budget about 2–3 hours for your visit. Locals often spend the entire evening here, enjoying the cool breeze and views of the Borneo coast.

Access to the Canada Hill grounds and the Grand Old Lady derrick is available to tourists 24/7. You can visit at any time of day or night to enjoy the city lights or catch the sunrise.

According to official data, the site operates on the following schedule:

• Monday – Sunday: 24 hours a day

Please note that the indoor galleries of the Petroleum Museum have their own specific operating hours, usually closing in the evening, so it is best to plan your visit for the first half of the day to see the exhibits.

Exploring the surroundings of Canada Hill allows tourists to both touch the history of the oil industry and enjoy the city's modern infrastructure. Nearby, you will find cozy spots to relax and interesting sites to round out your visit.

Below are the nearest attractions and leisure spots easily accessible from the Grand Old Lady: