By Shikin Louis
MIRI, Nov 7: Baram could eventually become a suburb of Miri, with Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg proposing that Padang Kerbau be renamed Kerbau Jaya as the area develops.
He said the area beyond Canada Hill had the potential to become part of a new Miri, with future commercial and residential development, including a hospital.
“Earlier, we were talking about this place called Padang Kerbau. But there are no more buffaloes here, so I suggest renaming it Kerbau Jaya,” he said when officiating at the opening of the FORUM Cultural Centre here today.
Abang Johari also pointed to the strategic location of the cultural centre, owned by the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations Sarawak Malaysia (FORUM), at the entrance to Baram, along the planned Miri-Marudi dual carriageway.
“Baram won’t be ulu anymore. Baram will be suburb of Miri,” he said, outlining his vision for the area’s future.
The Orang Ulu community is a significant part of Miri’s population, with an estimated 170,000 to 180,000 Orang Ulu across Sarawak, including about 86,000 in Miri, according to figures cited by Abang Johari.
The event was streamed live on Facebook by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS). — DayakDaily
