MIRI, March 14 — The first-ever Miri Craft Festival has put the coastal city on the map as a premier hub for Orang Ulu craftsmanship and culture, attracting artisans, aficionados and tourists to a three-day homage to Sarawak’s highland traditions.
Set against Miri’s picturesque waterfront, the festival showcased over 100 Orang Ulu craftspersons from groups including the Kenyah, Kayan, Lun Bawang, Penan and Kelabit. Attendees browsed an impressive selection of beadwork, elaborate woodcarvings, handwoven fabrics and traditional instruments, all exhibited and sold across numerous stalls.
Alongside the craft bazaar, interactive workshops and live demos allowed guests to learn ancestral techniques—participants experimented with backstrap loom weaving and ikat dying, while Penan rattan specialists demonstrated their basketry. Each evening, cultural ensembles delivered authentic Orang Ulu dance and music performances, giving spectators a firsthand taste of indigenous performing arts.
Organizers and local officials emphasise the festival’s role in redefining Miri’s identity beyond oil and gas, opening new avenues for creative sectors in northern Sarawak. “Highlighting Orang Ulu artistry helps safeguard our cultural heritage and generate income streams for rural makers,” said Sarawak Craft Council chair Josephine Ten. “With Miri’s facilities and audience, we now have a signature event celebrating native creativity.”
The event also drew attention from regional tour operators eager to craft cultural itineraries around Orang Ulu villages. A concurrent heritage travel fair offered homestay deals, jungle treks and river cruises in traditional longboats.
Organizers reported over 5,000 visitors on opening weekend, with educational initiatives for schools and universities running throughout. Sustainability took centre stage: vendors were urged to use compostable packaging, and a “reuse and recycle” zone demonstrated how to upcycle everyday items into practical art.
Looking forward, the Sarawak Tourism Board and Miri City Council are planning to extend the festival to a full week next year, with satellite events in nearby towns. For now, the Miri Craft Festival stands as a must-visit showcase for those keen to explore the richness of Orang Ulu artistic heritage.
📊 Miri Property Market Insight
The Miri real estate sector shows steady growth, fueled by new infrastructure, oil & gas activity, population increase and rising demand for rental and resale units.
Keeping abreast of project launches, price movements and policy changes enables buyers and investors to make well-informed choices.
💡 What This Means for Buyers & Investors
Homebuyers in Miri can choose from budget-friendly options to upscale gated communities.
Investors may secure appealing rental returns in key districts like Marina, Permyjaya, Taman Tunku and downtown apartments.
New developments also offer early-bird rates and developer incentives.
🔗 Useful Resources
Note: This article was auto-fetched from trusted news sources. Information is for general reference only. Always verify project details, pricing, and investment decisions with licensed agents or official developers.
📈 Looking for Ways to Grow Your Savings?
After budgeting or planning your property expenses, explore smarter investing options like REITs and stocks for long-term growth.
📈 Start Trading Smarter with moomoo Malaysia →(Sponsored — Trade REITs & stocks with professional tools)