The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture recently conducted a strategic engagement session with Chinese tour operators to discuss the expansion of charter flight packages. During the programme, Deputy Minister Chiew Choon Man delivered a comprehensive presentation aimed at fostering stronger tourism ties between the two nations. A primary focus of the discussion was the encouragement of operators to explore and establish new direct flight routes connecting Miri with various cities in China.
Chiew, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Miri, emphasised that this initiative is a long-term commitment he intends to monitor closely. He stated that his ultimate objective is to elevate Miri’s profile on the global tourism map, highlighting its status as one of Sarawak’s most significant urban centres. By improving international connectivity, the Ministry aims to tap into the vast Chinese market and drive a steady influx of visitors to the northern region of the state.
In a formal statement following the session, the Deputy Minister reiterated that increasing tourist arrivals into Miri remains a top priority for his office. He noted that the lack of direct international links is a hurdle that must be overcome to fully realise the city’s potential as a premier destination. Enhancing accessibility is seen as a vital step in supporting local businesses and the broader hospitality sector within Sarawak.
In addition to the discussions with Chinese operators, Chiew took the opportunity to engage with a group of Singaporean tourists during the event. He noted that Singapore consistently ranks as one of the top four sources of visitors to Sarawak from within the ASEAN region. The interaction allowed for a direct exchange of ideas and provided the Ministry with valuable feedback regarding the current state of the local tourism industry and areas for improvement.
The Deputy Minister expressed his delight in welcoming the Singaporean visitors, personally introducing them to Miri’s renowned local delicacies and iconic landmarks. According to Chiew, the tourists praised the city for its unique appeal, specifically mentioning the tranquil and relaxing environment as a major draw. Such positive reinforcement underscores the importance of maintaining Miri’s reputation as a peaceful retreat while simultaneously boosting its international reach.
