Miri Beach Festival 2013 wows big crowd

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WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS: The team from the Civil Defence Department wins the tug-of-war contest.

MIRI: Assistant Minister of Communications Datuk Lee Kim Shin was smiling from ear to ear yesterday when he saw that the maiden Miri Beach Festival 2013 managed to lure about 1,000 people to Esplanade Luak.

He immediately blared; “I hope such a festival can be held from time to time so that it becomes another tourist attraction here.”

More tourists would translate to mean a better economy through more business activities, he added.

Lee, who is also Assistant Minister of Sports, said the festival, which is held in conjunction with Miri May Fest, served as a great platform for everyone, including youths and families, to spend time together.

“Such recreational activities are not only good as a healthy lifestyle pursuit but it can also help strengthen the unity of the people,” he said before giving away prizes to the winners of various games.

“It also represents an opportunity for all races, regardless of religion and backgrounds, to socialise and to live in peace and harmony.”

The crowd started converging at the beach as early as 7am and all activities streamed along well up to about 6pm, thanks to the fine weather.

PULL HARDER: Members of the Hash House Harriers team in a tug-of-war contest against a team from the Civil Defence Department.

The festival was jointly organised by CGE Global Sdn Bhd, Trust Management & Exhibition, Skim Trooper 2 and Syarikat Sinar Borneo Enterprise, with sponsorship from Digi, F&N, Skim Shack, Miri City Council and Madli Satay.

Mayor Lawrence Lai and event organiser Corriena Sharkawi were among those present.

Among the activities held were tug-of-war, skimboarding (flatland), beach volleyball, beach soccer, paragliding, skateboard demonstration and BMX display. There were also tattoo, merchandise, food and beverage stalls.

PUBLIC DISPLAY: Several skateboarding enthusiasts showing off their skills at the Miri Beach Festival 2013 in Esplanade Luak.

MAY THE STRONGEST TEAM WIN: (From left) Lai and Lee start the tug-of-war event.

FUN IN THE SAND: A beach volley ball game in progress.