Grand Old Lady

One of Sarawak's most important historical monuments. MIRI WELL No. 1 - The Grand Old Lady - struck oil on 22 December 1910. 

Grand Old Lady is not a frail figure of an old woman but Miri's Number 1 oil well, the first cable- tool oil well in the country, a 'mother' who milked a poor country to a prosperous nation. 

This landmark is about 30 meters high, Located on top of Canada Hill overlooking Miri, it attracts locals to enjoy the scenery or jog on the well-designed path. The discovery of oil in 1910 on Canada Hill has a significant place in the history of modern Miri. 

Canada Hill is where the oil industry in the Sarawak started, with the successful drilling of well Miri-1 in December 1910. 

The growth of the oil industry has helped to transform Miri from a small fishing village at the turn of the 20th century into a modern and prosperous town in the 21st Century. The first derrick constructed was affectionately called 'The Grand Old Lady' and produced oil for 62 years. 

Next to the Grand Old Lady, the Petroleum Museum exhibits photographs and information on the petroleum industry. In joint venture with Shell Malaysia and Petronas, has built a museum-cum- information centre. At the rear of the museum, the parking lot serves as a vantage point overlooking Miri town below. 

The view from Bukit Telaga Minyak is rewarding because the panorama not only include the whole town comes but also the Miri-Brunei border, the offshore oilrigs and the refineries in nearby Lutong township.

Getting Here 

By Road 

There's no public transport to this place. Alternatively, you could charter a taxi for the day or hire a car. The road connection is excellent and the directions are easy.

Who To Contact 

Sarawak Museum Department 

Phone: (6082)244 232 

Sarawak Tourism Office 

Phone: (6082) 246 575 / 775