By Emily Ruran
MIRI, Apr 25: An international school planned as part of the Beraya Action Area Plan 2035 in Miri is set to be among the first projects launched, with development expected to begin next year following the completion of planning and site identification, said Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“The site has already been identified, along with its masterplan, including the commercial area in Beraya, in addition to the international school and convention centre.
“This will serve as a catalyst to spur development in the Subis district, which is home to the world-renowned Niah National Park,” he said at the officiation of the Miri-level Sarawakku Sayang 2026 programme at Miri Stadium here today.
The Premier elaborated that Sarawak will develop Beraya as a strategic growth centre to support economic activity around Niah National Park, while preserving the integrity of the Unesco-listed site.
He said the approach was necessary as both Mulu National Park and Niah are protected areas that cannot be disturbed under international conservation requirements.
As Beraya is located between key areas in the northern region, he said it had been identified as a suitable site to drive development without affecting the protected zones.
“Niah is a Unesco site, we cannot touch it. So, we must be smart. We need a centre that can boost economic activities in the area, and that is why we decided to develop Beraya.
“We will develop a commercial area in Beraya, including a mini convention centre where discussions on biodiversity can be held. In addition, an international school will also be established in Beraya,” he said.
He added that earlier studies indicated human settlement in the Niah area dated back 45,000 years, while more recent research by international experts suggested it could be as far back as 60,000 years.
“This makes Niah one of the earliest known human settlements in the world, and an important destination for global researchers studying human civilisation,” he said. — DayakDaily
