By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, Oct 9: The RM445 million Miri Airport upgrading project should showcase Sarawak’s rich cultural identity by incorporating local art, traditional crafts and cultural motifs, particularly those of the Orang Ulu community, into the terminal’s interior design to reflect the heritage of Miri, Baram and the Kelabit Highlands.
Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the integration of cultural elements with modern airport infrastructure would help strengthen Miri and Sarawak’s identity as internationally recognised destinations.
He said the project, approved in April 2026, is expected to double the airport’s annual passenger-handling capacity from approximately two million to four million.
“Modern airports and local cultural identity can complement each other. Miri Airport must tell our own story,” he said at an engagement session organised by the Sarawak Ministry of Transport (MOTS) here on Thursday (Oct 8).
Lee said local art, traditional crafts, cultural motifs and handicrafts could be incorporated into the terminal’s interior design to highlight Sarawak’s diverse cultural heritage, with particular emphasis on the traditions and craftsmanship of the Orang Ulu community.
However, he stressed that such elements must be presented accurately and with respect for their origins and cultural significance.
“The design must also ensure the upgraded terminal remains safe, efficient, accessible and comfortable for passengers,” he said.
Lee said efforts to secure approval for the project had been pursued since 2016, with various discussions held with the federal government and several Malaysian transport ministers before it received official approval in April 2026.
He said expanding Miri Airport was essential to accommodate growing passenger traffic and reinforce the city’s role as a key gateway to northern Sarawak.
He also expressed appreciation to both the federal and Sarawak governments for their support in realising the project.
The engagement session, held from Oct 7 to 9, brought together the project team from the Public Works Department Malaysia (JKR), representatives of cultural associations, artists and local craftspeople to gather input on the proposed interior design concept for the terminal. — DayakDaily
