Lee (fifth right) flags off the runners.
MIRI (Jan 19): With the right strategies and promotions, Miri Gong Xi Bazaar has the potential to attract both domestic and international visitors, says state Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
He said the bazaar has grown over the past 21 years since it was first held, with more participants and festive activities.
“The event can be strategically packaged to attract visitors who want to immerse themselves in the festive ambience,” he suggested.
Lee said this in his officiating speech at the Miri Gong Xi Bazaar’s Chinese New Year Run 3.0, organised by the Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) on Saturday.
The Senadin assemblyman thus called upon MCCCI to collaborate with local authorities and relevant agencies to come up with Chinese New Year packages that showcase Miri’s vibrant festive atmosphere.
Such celebration activities in the state, he said, were not restricted to any particular race or religious group but ones that welcomed everyone to come together and celebrate in peace and harmony.
“The Miri Gong Xi Bazaar is a good platform to foster inclusivity, whereby one-third of the stalls at the bazaar are operated by Bumiputera vendors.
“This reflects the spirit of togetherness in Sarawak, where all Malaysians celebrate each other’s festivals,” he said, while suggesting for the existing significant structures or landmarks in the city be utilised to further elevate the festive experience and attract tourists.
The run’s co-organising chairman Vincent Lu, who also spoke at the event, said the event had attracted over 400 participants, mostly comprising youths and families.
“MCCCI has decided to continue hosting the running event as it symbolises a good beginning as well as to promote a healthy lifestyle through community spirit.
“It serves as a reminder that one can achieve so much more when coming together towards a shared purpose as the community is unified by the values of perseverance, unity, and a spirit of giving,” said Lu.
Also present were MCCCI chairman Ling Chiong Sing and co-organising chairman of the event’s working committee councillor Leslie Lau.
This post was originally published on here
