As part of our ongoing exploration into how Malaysia’s hospitality sector is driving inclusive growth, Malaysia SME caught up with Andy Pian Lemulun, Executive Assistant Manager of Pullman Miri Waterfront.
Situated in northern Sarawak and operating under the Accor Group, Pullman Miri Waterfront is owned and managed by Interhill Hospitality. Its sister property, Pullman Kuching, is also part of the same group, which operates as a division of the Interhill Group. Over the years, Pullman Miri Waterfront has steadily evolved into more than just a business-class property. It is actively engaging with local communities, SMEs, artisans, and schools to create shared value. In this feature, we explore how the hotel is integrating itself into the local ecosystem while upholding Accor’s global ethos of “Pioneering the Art of Responsible Hospitality, Connecting Cultures, with Heartfelt Care.”
A Landmark with Purpose
Since opening its doors on 17 September 2016, Pullman Miri Waterfront has grown to become a hub of convergence for business travellers, weekenders from neighbouring Brunei, and a growing ecosystem of Sarawakian SMEs. With 328 rooms, seven function spaces, and facilities such as a gym and infinity pool overlooking the South China Sea, the hotel blends international standards with local heart.
“Tabi’ Medting Lem Bawang Miri” — Welcome to Miri in Kelabit, greeted Andy, setting the tone for a conversation rooted in both culture and place. Andy has been with Pullman Miri Waterfront since March 2016 and was appointed Executive Assistant Manager in 2021.
Accor, according to Andy, champions the philosophy of connecting cultures with heartfelt care. “For Pullman Waterfront Miri, that means going beyond service—it’s about community, collaboration, and making people feel they belong.”
Corporate Meets Culture
Pullman Miri Waterfront’s clientele reflects Miri’s dual character as both a regional oil and gas hub and a leisure stop for cross-border visitors. “Our weekdays are largely corporate—oil and gas professionals, government delegations, and business events,” said Andy. “But weekends are when we see the influx from Brunei. Families love our pool, the view, and how close we are to town.”
Many guests are with corporates or are expats seeking a quick city escape. “We help connect them to local operators for day trips to attractions like Niah Caves or Tusan Beach,” he said.
Beyond the Lobby
One of Pullman Miri Waterfront’s most enduring collaborations is with the Penan Women’s Project (PWP). For over four years, the hotel has hosted a permanent display and sales counter for handwoven Penan crafts—without taking commission.
“It’s part of our role as a responsible hospitality player,” said Andy. “This initiative helps bring handcrafted products by the Penan community, one of Sarawak’s indigenous tribes, into the mainstream market and introduces them to wider audiences.”
Pullman has collaborated with Miri Artisans Market to host artisan markets and cultural carnivals from time to time, supporting the local creative community whenever possible. “Demand has been good, and we look forward to welcoming even more vendors in future editions,” the team shared.
In addition to championing local crafts and culture, the hotel also supports causes that promote health and community spirit. Over the years, Pullman Miri Waterfront has been actively involved in organising local marathons. The hotel has channeled the proceeds to charitable causes.
Art for Connection
Pullman Miri Waterfront has served as a venue partner for the Miri Arts Festival, transforming its space into a cultural exhibition ground.
“Some of the art pieces sold for thousands during the event,” Andy shared. “They were from both local and international artists, and we’re proud to help promote that blend of perspectives.”
Positioning Miri for Visit Malaysia Year 2026
With Visit Malaysia Year 2026 on the horizon, Pullman Miri Waterfront is looking to deepen its role as a tourism enabler in the northern Sarawak corridor.
“We’re collaborating with local tour operators to design packages that include cultural and culinary trails,” said Andy. “For example, guests can stay with us and enjoy a half-day city tour, food trails, and visits to heritage enclaves.”
Miri’s proximity to UNESCO heritage sites such as Niah Caves—and the lesser-known diving experiences off its coastline—presents untapped opportunities.
Building Talent from the Ground Up
Originally from Bario, a highland Kelabit village in northern Sarawak, Andy understands the importance of investing in local people. He began his hospitality journey in Kuala Lumpur, and navigated his way up the career ladder.
“I returned to Miri not only because it’s closer to my homeland, but also because I believe in the potential of this place.”
Andy Pian Lemulun, Executive Assistant Manager of Pullman Miri Waterfront.
To this end, Pullman Miri Waterfront is working closely with local secondary and international schools to introduce hospitality as a viable career path.
Hospitality with a Human Touch
Guests at Pullman Miri are often pleasantly surprised by the personal touches—like a handwritten note from housekeeping staff.
“These notes aren’t just for show,” Andy explained. “We track guest feedback daily and at the end of the month, we reward staff who go above and beyond with certificates and recognition.” The initiative also enables staff to be more involved in creating value for guests.
Sustainability as Strategy
Pullman Miri is aligning with Accor’s global sustainability commitments by embedding circular economy practices into operations.
“We’re working towards reducing single-use plastics, focusing on locally sourced products, and implementing structured waste reduction programmes,” said Andy. “We believe hospitality can and should be a force for good.”
The hotel has initiated the installation of a water filtration system to replace the use of plastic water bottles. This project is expected to be completed in all guest rooms by Q4 2025. In line with its commitment to sustainable hospitality, the hotel is also embarking on the journey to achieve the Green Globe Certification.
A Connector of People, Culture, and Community
Despite being perceived as a business hotel, Pullman Miri Waterfront is gradually embracing its role as both a city anchor and community connector.
“We don’t see ourselves just as a hotel,” Andy shared. “We are part of the social and economic fabric of Miri. Our role is to help people feel seen—whether they’re guests, local artisans, or young people finding their path.”
Writer’s Note:
Pullman Miri Waterfront was the final stop of the CAM CO-STAR MINIBUS road trip, which was flagged off by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts. Organised by CAM Malaysia in collaboration with Asian Buses, the tour involved Malaysian and international media self-driving from Kuching to Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri. The initiative aimed to showcase the beauty of Sarawak while positioning minibuses as a key enabler of tourism, in support of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign.
