By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, Dec 24: The Visitor Information Center Miri Garden (VICM Garden) officially marked its transformation into a vibrant community hub with the successful hosting of the Twinkling Christmas Market on Dec 14 and 15.
Organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Miri City Council (MCC), the event drew over 4,000 visitors and served as a showcase of the garden’s potential as a venue for community-centred activities and events, according to a press release.
This milestone event follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between STB and MCC on Nov 20, which formalised their partnership for the adoption and maintenance of VICM Garden.
This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to enhancing Miri’s public green spaces, fostering community engagement, and positioning the garden as a key attraction in the city.
Meanwhile, the Twinkling Christmas Market not only celebrated the festive season but also served as the official introduction of the garden as a venue open to the public for use, available for bookings at a nominal fee.
Featuring 19 vendors offering handmade crafts, festive treats, and more, the market allowed attendees to shop local while enjoying the cheerful holiday ambience.
Seven captivating performances, ranging from school choirs and church carollers to local bands and street singers, filled the garden with festive spirit, creating an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Santa Claus also made a special appearance, delighting children and families with balloons and gifts.
A standout addition to the area is the magnificent Sape Sculpture, standing tall at 3.2 metres. This striking landmark adds character to the garden and the city of Miri, becoming the first and only Sape structure in the entire city.
With its emphasis on community, sustainability, and inclusivity, VICM Garden is set to become a cornerstone of Miri’s social and cultural landscape.
Residents and organisations are encouraged to utilise the space, which is now open for public use, ensuring the garden becomes a thriving centre for shared experiences and memorable moments. — DayakDaily
