Miri Piasau Nature Reserve: Discover Hornbill Sanctuary & Green Oasis

Location & Purpose

Located just 7 kilometers from the heart of Miri at Lot 1274, Jalan Peninsula, the Piasau Nature Reserve (PNR) is a lushes sanctuary for wildlife nestled amidst urban growth. Officially established in 2014, PNR serves as a major biodiversity conservation project amid the city’s developmental growth. While its primary mission is conservation and ecotourism, the reserve plays a significant role in enhancing the well-being of Miri's residents by offering a convenient and freely accessible place to escape into nature.

How to Get There

The simplest way to get to the reserve is by car. The drive from the city center takes around 12 minutes. If you prefer public transport, e-hailing services like Grab or Maxim offer rides for approximately RM 14 - RM 20 for a round trip. For those staying at the nearby Piasau Pantai Homestay Residence, a 15-minute walk will lead you directly to the reserve. For homestay booking details, visit: Piasau Pantai Homestay.

Why Visit PNR?

PNR offers a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts and recreational seekers alike. Wander along its narrow paths and immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna. Whether you're a jogger, walker, or cyclist, the reserve features trails and paths suited to your preference.

Birdwatching

PNR is a haven for birdwatchers. You might encounter species like the Collared Kingfisher, Common Iora, Crimson Sunbird, Magpies, and Eurasian Tree Sparrow during your visit. But if you came to the “Land of Hornbills”, surely encountering a real-life hornbill is in your to-do-list. Fortunately, PNR is home to a small population of Oriental-pied Hornbills. Look out for Jimmy, a prominent resident, and his new “wife”, Juliet. Jimmy and his first mate, the late Faridah (who has unfortunately passed in 2013) sired together 56 offspring, many of which still inhabit the area. A brief 7-minute walk from the main center will take you to the ranger station, where you might catch a glimpse of these fascinating birds.

Adoption Program

You can also support PNR's conservation efforts through the Sarawak Forestry Corporation's “Bring Back the Rainforest” project. This initiative invites individuals and organizations to adopt a hornbill or a tree (for individuals) or a plot of land (for corporate sponsors). For further information, the adoption details and pricing are available at Hornbill Adoption and Tree Adoption.

Adopting a hornbill entitles you to an official certificate, a yearly report on the specific hornbill you have adopted, and exclusive merchandise. Your support helps ensure ample food and a thriving environment for PNR’s wildlife while promoting the reserve’s conservation work globally.

Education

Besides that, visiting the Interpretation Centre provides you the opportunity to appreciate the rich biodiversity this reserve is trying to converse. It serves as both an educational hub and a welcoming space for those interested in the reserve’s flora, fauna, and conservation initiatives. As you step into the Interpretation Centre, you’ll be greeted by a range of exhibits that highlight the unique aspects of PNR’s ecosystem. The centre is designed to cater to visitors of all ages, making it a fantastic destination for families, school groups, and individual nature enthusiasts.

When to Visit

Going on Nature Exploration

The main trails, jogging paths, and cycling routes are open daily from 6 am to 6:30 pm.

Visiting the Centre

The visitation center operates Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, and is closed on weekends and public holidays.

Visiting the Interpretation Centre

The interpretation center is open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 3 pm, and on weekends and public holidays, from 9 am to 5 pm.

Recommendations

I would recommend visiting the reserve in the morning between 6am to 8am for walks and runs, the weather then is generally more humid and cooler compared to later in the day.

I would not venture out too late in the evening on the trails as there are snakes around the area. Do be careful. You can enjoy the company of nature all day long at the reserve, but it may be wise to pay attention to the weather so that you may fully enjoy your experience when visiting. The refreshing air, the sounds of the forest around you, will provide a unique experience in which you will enter the rainforest, without having to leave the city.