Miri

what to do in miri?

Miri, arguably the largest concentration of Sarawak’s Indigenous communities, offers a unique and culturally rich setting for this event. Located in the northeast of Sarawak, it is the birthplace of Malaysia's oil industry and home to Shell Malaysia headquarters, Miri is a thriving hub with a blend of modern infrastructure and history, including hotels and an international airport, making it an ideal weekend destination.

With direct access from major cities - just 2 hours from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei - Miri is perfectly positioned to attract international visitors. As hosts and showcasing its dynamic cultural scene through the long-running Borneo Jazz Festival, Miri is the perfect location and at the ideal intersection of celebrating culture and indigenous heritage.

Piasau nature reserve, Miri Sarawak

Not sure where to stay in Miri?

If you're not from around here, it can be tricky to know where to begin. So we've done the legwork and put together a list of places we think you’ll like — from cozy stays to convenient hotels near the festival venue.

As our official hotel partners, Mercure Miri has put up a special deal for IXF2025.

Booking Period: 1st August - 14th September 2025

Stay Date: 10th September - 14th September

Preferential code: INDIGENOUS25

Special rates are RM 240 Nett with 1 breakfast or RM 270 Nett with 2 breakfast.

Bookings should be done directly through the Mercure website here.

1. MERCURE miri city centre

For alternatives, we have also compiled some other hotels for you to enquire to stay with during your time here in Miri.

2. cosy inn
3. ajang hotel
4. the room hotel
5. kingwood boutique hotel
6. Ano hotel

What else is there to do in Miri?

Come by for an early morning breakfast or just to meet the locals who are either buying or selling.

miri open air market

Beautiful Jade Centre, also nicknamed “Old Man Street” is dubbed this way because the elderly often congregate for breakfast and a round of checkers. You can come by and join in for breakfast, or stroll the alley for a nice cold cup of ABC or Ice Kacang.

old man street

With the recently erected Miri signage, don’t miss the chance to either head up to Canada Hill for an evening stroll, hike or just for a nice, ice cold coconut drink.

canada hill

A marketplace to check out not just local produce, but also to grab a bite at the local “rumah asap” or smokehouse.

e-mart tudan

Quintessential spot for drinks and a bite in Miri city. Renown for their friendly staff and sometimes eclectic music mix, you’ll be sure to have a good time.