Bintulu

During the 16th century, Bintulu was named "River de Burulu" by Portuguese cartographers.{{cite journal|last1=Broek|first1=Jan O.M.|title=Place Names in 16th and 17th Century Borneo|journal=Imago Mundi|date=1962|volume=16|issue=1|page=132|doi=10.1080/03085696208592208|jstor=1150309|quote=Fig. 2. Borneo Place Names, 16th century – D.H. 1558: R. de burulu = Bintulu}} There are several legends surrounding the name Bintulu. During the Brooke dynasty, the indigenous practised headhunting to maintain their social status in the community. They threw the heads into the Kemena River, after which the heads had to be collected from the river. The practice of collecting the heads was known as "Metuk Ulow" (picking heads){{cite news|title=Penyelidikan dan kajian dijalankan untuk mendokumentasi sejarah Bintulu (Research and studies conducted to document the history of Bintulu)|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/10/23/penyelidikan-dan-kajian-dijalankan-untuk-mendokumentasi-sejarah-bintulu/|access-date=5 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=23 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605125502/http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/10/23/penyelidikan-dan-kajian-dijalankan-untuk-mendokumentasi-sejarah-bintulu/|archive-date=5 June 2015|language=ms}} in the local native language.{{cite book|last1=De Ledesma|first1=Charles|last2=Lewis|first2=Mark|last3=Savage|first3=Pauline|title=Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei|date=2003|publisher=Rough Guides|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hS0_GehsGPwC&pg=PA459|access-date=5 April 2016|page=459|quote=The name "Bintulu" is, in fact, derived from the Vaie "Metuk Ulow" – "the place for picking up heads"; before Bintulu was bought by Charles Brooke from the Sultan of Brunei in 1853, Melanau pirates preyed on the local coast, attacking passing ships and decapitating their crews.|isbn=9781843530947}} Another story relates that two Iban warriors named Berengik and Jaleb built houses along the river. They and their followers frequently carried out preservation of severed heads near a small river stream branching off from Sebezaw River because the river bank was flat and wide. Therefore, the small river stream was named "Metuk Ulow" river.{{cite web|title=Bintulu di hatiku – Sejarah (Bintulu in my heart – History)|url=http://catsfm.my/blogs/view/bintulu-di-hatiku|publisher=Cats FM blog|access-date=5 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605124730/http://catsfm.my/blogs/view/bintulu-di-hatiku|archive-date=5 June 2015|language=ms}} Outsiders who came to Bintulu subsequently pronounced the name as "Mentulau", and later the name evolved into "Bentulu" and, finally, "Bintulu".{{cite web|title=Asal Usul Bintulu (The origin of Bintulu)|url=http://www.bintuluro.sarawak.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=56&menu_id=0&sub_id=112|publisher=Bintulu Resident Office|access-date=17 June 2015}}{{dead link|date=July 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

File:Fort Keppel, Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia.jpg

James Brooke was appointed the White Rajah of Sarawak (now known as Kuching) by the Bruneian Empire in 1841. In 1861, the Sultanate of Brunei ceded the Bintulu region to Brooke.{{cite web|title=History|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=75&menu_id=0&sub_id=92|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority (BDA)|access-date=1 June 2015}}{{cite news|title=Chronology of Sarawak throughout the Brooke Era to Malaysia Day|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2011/09/16/chronology-of-sarawak-throughout-the-brooke-era-to-malaysia-day/|access-date=1 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=16 September 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150206205544/http://www.theborneopost.com/2011/09/16/chronology-of-sarawak-throughout-the-brooke-era-to-malaysia-day/|archive-date=6 February 2015}} Bintulu was a small settlement at that time. A wooden fort named Fort Keppel was built in the village,{{cite book|last1=Steven|first1=Runcimen|title=The White Rajah: A History of Sarawak from 1841 to 1946|date=2010|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=978-0-521-06168-1|page=205|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=m4_O9GB4KBoC&pg=PA205|access-date=3 June 2015|quote=The fort built at Bintulu was called Fort Keppel, after the first Rajah's old friend}} named after Sir Henry Keppel, who was a close friend of the Rajah James and Charles Brooke. Sir Henry Keppel was responsible for crushing the Dayak piracy in the Saribas between 1840 and 1850.{{cite news|last1=Bakar|first1=Lamah|title=The story behind the state's streets and roads|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/story/?sec=sarawak&file=%2F2011%2F3%2F1%2Fsarawak%2F8124293|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207131130/http://www.thestar.com.my/story/?sec=sarawak&file=%2F2011%2F3%2F1%2Fsarawak%2F8124293|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 February 2015|access-date=3 June 2015|newspaper=The Star (Malaysia)|date=1 March 2011}} Meanwhile, Charles Brooke was a nephew of James Brooke and would later become the latter's successor as the second Rajah of Sarawak. Odoardo Beccari, an Italian botanist, visited Bintulu in 1867. On 4 August, he started his journey on a gunboat named "Heartsease", which was to send $6,000 to Brunei for concessions being made to James Brooke in the Mukah and Bintulu regions. He went to Labuan before coming back to Bintulu. He dropped off at Kemena River on 13 August 1867. His observations of the village were recorded as follows:{{cite book|last1=Beccari|first1=Odoardo|title=Wanderings in the Great Forests of Borneo|date=1904|publisher=Archibald Constable & Co Ltd|location=London|pages=242, 256, 257|url=https://archive.org/stream/wanderingsingrea00becc#page/242/mode/2up|access-date=4 June 2015}}

{{blockquote|The fort of Bintulu which was built entirely of wood, was in somewhat ruinous condition. It stood nearly on the sea-shore, and just behind it, at a distance of few paces, the primeval forests commenced...Some chinamen had settled at the vicinity of the fort and had built a small bazaar; but the village is chiefly formed by the houses of the Melanau beyond the Chinese kampong (village). These Melanaus used to live further up the river, but since the construction of the fort, and the installation of an officer of the Rajah near the mouth of the river, they came to settle near the sea{{snds}}a thing they would never have dared to do in former days for fear of the attacks of the Lanun pirates and Dayak pirates.|Reported by Odoardo Beccari in 1904}}

The houses of the Melanau people were built in rows on both sides of the Kemena River, mostly furnished by Nipah and Sago palms. Each house had its own shed projection into the entrance of the river, which was used for the processing of Sago palms. On 8 September 1867, the first Sarawak General Council meeting (now Sarawak State Legislative Assembly) took place here. It was made up of 21 elected local community members (five British officers and 16 Malay and Melanau local chiefs). The council was formed by Raja Muda Charles Brooke under orders from Rajah James Brooke. The council is the oldest state legislative assembly in Malaysia.{{cite news|title=Melanau association resents Bintulu being called 'poor town'|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/09/02/melanau-association-resents-bintulu-being-called-poor-town/|access-date=1 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=2 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120908093728/http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/09/02/melanau-association-resents-bintulu-being-called-poor-town/|archive-date=8 September 2012|quote=Bintulu is the energy town that has become the biggest provider of the nation's wealth.}}{{cite web|title=Bintulu – Places of Interest |url=http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=49&menu_id=0&sub_id=66 |publisher=Bintulu Development Authority |access-date=19 July 2015 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20161119121306/http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=49&menu_id=0&sub_id=66 |archive-date=19 November 2016 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|title=Hot Spots |url=http://www.isarawak.com.my/bintulu/hotspots.html |website=isarawak.com.my |access-date=1 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304030754/http://www.isarawak.com.my/bintulu/hotspots.html |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=dead }}

{{main|Japanese occupation of British Borneo}}

During World War II, Rajah Charles Vyner Brooke ordered the construction of airstrips in Kuching, Oya, Mukah, Bintulu, and Miri. Construction of the Bintulu airstrip was started in 1934 under the direction of C.{{nbsp}}W. Bailey, a Works and Building Inspector for the British Royal Air Force (RAF). All the airstrips were completed except for the Bintulu airstrip, where construction was discontinued in October 1938 due to financial reasons.{{cite web|first=Klemen |last=L |url=https://warfare.gq/dutcheastindies/sarawak.html |title=The Invasion of British Borneo in 1942 |date=1999–2000 |work=Forgotten Campaign: The Dutch East Indies Campaign 1941–1942 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150401045406/http://www.dutcheastindies.webs.com/sarawak.html |archive-date=1 April 2015 }} Japanese forces landed in Miri on 16 December 1941. Sarawak fell into Japanese hands when they conquered Kuching on 24 December 1941. When the Japanese invaded Sarawak, Charles Vyner Brooke already left for Sydney (Australia) before the attack while his officers were captured by the Japanese and interned at the Batu Lintang camp.{{cite web|title=The Japanese Occupation (1941–1945)|url=http://www.sarawak.gov.my/web/home/article_view/235/246/|publisher=The Sarawak Government|access-date=3 November 2015}} During the Japanese occupation, the Japanese used the airstrip for military purposes. However, the airstrip was heavily bombed by Allied forces. The British began reconstruction of the airstrip after the war; during the project many unexploded bombs were unearthed.{{cite news|last1=Mohamed|first1=Sakina|title=Reminiscing the old Bintulu|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/09/16/reminiscing-the-old-bintulu/|access-date=7 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=16 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231030938/http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/09/16/reminiscing-the-old-bintulu/|archive-date=31 December 2014 }}

On 5 September 1942, Japanese Field Marshal Prince Maida (前田利为) boarded a plane from Kuching to Labuan to officiate an airport that bears his name. However, he never arrived.{{cite web|title=松鼠助建國‧英女王巧遇哪吒‧神怪傳說豐富貓城 (The squirrel that helped to build the country – British Queen encountered Nezha by chance – Legend of the genie – Rich cat city)|url=http://www.guangming.com.my/node/112701|publisher=Guang Ming Daily (Malaysia)|access-date=7 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150607055406/http://www.guangming.com.my/node/112701|archive-date=7 June 2015|language=zh}}{{cite web|title=当年浮罗岸地标 – 华侨青年社 变娥殿大戏院 (The then Padungan landmark was the Chinese Youth Community Centre before it became DEON Cinema.)|url=http://www.intimes.com.my/write-html/06padungan02.htm|publisher=International Times (Sarawak)|access-date=7 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130124080816/http://intimes.com.my/write-html/06padungan02.htm|archive-date=24 January 2013 }}{{cite news |title=Kuching is not the City of the Cat |newspaper=The Sarawak Gazette |date=1 June 1948 |volume=LXXIV |issue=1083 |page=122 |url=http://www.pustaka-sarawak.com/gazette/gazette_uploaded/1371429064.pdf|access-date=7 June 2015|quote=Shortly afterwards, Field Marshal Prince Maida, cousin of the Emperor Sun God and Generalissimo, fell miserably to earth in a crashed plane somewhere around Miri.}} One month later, the plane was found to have crashed off the coast of Tanjung Batu, Bintulu. The cause of the plane crash was not known. The Japanese later set up a wooden pole memorial made up of Belian wood in Bintulu. The wooden pole was later taken back to Japan by the family of Prince Maida.{{cite web|last1=Yussop|first1=Mahmud|title=My Bintulu History|url=http://mybintuluhistory.blogspot.com/2007/07/first-facts-of-bintulu_17.html|publisher=My Bintulu History|access-date=7 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150607053236/http://mybintuluhistory.blogspot.com/2007/07/first-facts-of-bintulu_17.html|archive-date=7 June 2015}}

Chinese sawmill owners at Sibu and Bintulu were instructed by the Japanese to produce timber for repairs at oil fields and ship building. During the Japanese occupation, sawmills at Bintulu produced a total of 4,000 tons of sawn timber.{{cite book|last1=Ooi|first1=Keat Gin|title=The Japanese Occupation of Borneo, 1941–1945|date=2010|publisher=Routledge|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Eg_HBQAAQBAJ&pg=PT110|access-date=7 June 2015|isbn=9781136963094}}

File:Bintulu fishing village in 1950s.jpg

File:Aerial view of Bintulu town in 1950s.jpg

In the 1950s, major economic activities in Bintulu were the timber extraction industry, fishing, and Sago processing. In the 1960s, Bintulu was still a small fishing village, with a population of 5,000. No roads were constructed in Bintulu until 1969 when the first untarred road was built to connect Bintulu to Miri. The first bus that serviced the Miri{{nsndns}}Bintulu route was owned by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA). The MARA bus line was an initiative by the Malaysian federal government to provide public transportation for the people. The Iban villagers paid the bus driver with "vegetables, chickens, bamboo shoots, and other items". Before 1960, Bintulu was connected to Kuching by sea through a ship named "Swee Joo". After 1960, the ship "Chin Chin" was added to the route. It took around 36 to 48 hours to reach Bintulu from Kuching, depending on the sea conditions. Due to lack of food supplies from Kuching, the villagers had to make do with limited food, and several villagers resorted to hunting in the jungles to supplement the food supply.

In 1960 there were only three primary schools in Bintulu. These schools provided classes until Primary{{nbsp}}3 level. There were no secondary schools. Villagers could pursue their secondary school studies at either Miri or Kuching by using small boats as there were no roads connecting Bintulu to either Miri or Kuching. Bintulu Government Secondary School was opened in 1964. In 1967 Bintulu celebrated the first 100 years of the Council Negri meeting (Sarawak State Legislative Assembly). A stone monument was built in front of a government rice storeroom to commemorate the event. Bintulu was a sub-district of Miri Division in the 1970s. The sub-district was upgraded into a district in 1987.{{cite web|title=Sejarah Penubuhan Pejabat Residen Bintulu (History of formation of Bintulu Resident Office|url=http://www.bintuluro.sarawak.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=94&menu_id=0&sub_id=143|publisher=Bintulu Resident Office|access-date=17 June 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923185814/http://www.bintuluro.sarawak.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=94&menu_id=0&sub_id=143|archive-date=23 September 2015}}

File:Bintulu - Downtown.JPG

Large reserves of natural gas were discovered off the coast of Bintulu in 1969. Following this, a feasibility study was done in 1975, and Tanjung Kidurong was found to be a suitable site for a deep-water port. On 14 June 1978, Malaysia LNG Sdn Bhd (MLNG Satu) was established by Petronas, a Malaysian national oil and gas company for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) processing at Bintulu.{{cite web|title=Petronas MLNG – Our History|url=http://www.mlng.com.my/aboutus-ourhistory.aspx|publisher=Petronas MLNG|access-date=6 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150329111714/http://www.mlng.com.my/aboutus-ourhistory.aspx|archive-date=29 March 2015|quote=Our journey began on 14 June 1978, when PETRONAS, Shell BV and Mitsubishi secured a partnership agreement to undertake Malaysia's first LNG project. This momentous collaboration led to the birth of Malaysia LNG Sdn. Bhd. (MLNG). We were involved in every aspect of the project in Bintulu – from the plant, jetty and infrastructure construction to the acquisition of LNG carriers and training of human resource.}} On 8 July 1978, the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) was established by the Sarawak state government for infrastructure development and to promote industrial investment in the area.{{cite web|title=About Us|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=72&menu_id=0&sub_id=117|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority|access-date=10 June 2015}} On 15 August 1981, the Bintulu Port Authority was established at Tanjung Kidurong, starting operation on 1 January 1983.{{cite news|title=Bintulu Port celebrated 25th anniversary|url=http://www.apamalaysia.com/tag/bintulu-port-authority/|access-date=10 June 2015|agency=ASEAN Ports Association|date=29 August 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110610080121/http://www.apamalaysia.com/tag/bintulu-port-authority/|archive-date=10 June 2011}} Since the establishment of Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) in 2008, Bintulu become the gateway to Samalajau Industrial Park,{{cite news|title=Bintulu's Kidurong area sees increasing demand in industrial projects from SCORE|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/03/24/bintulus-kidurong-area-sees-increasing-demand-in-industrial-projects-from-score/|access-date=13 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=24 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150613113648/http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/03/24/bintulus-kidurong-area-sees-increasing-demand-in-industrial-projects-from-score/|archive-date=13 June 2015}} which is located {{convert|62|km}} away from Bintulu. The industrial park is a centre of heavy, energy-intensive industry.{{cite web|title=Samalaju Industrial Park, Bintulu|url=http://www.recoda.com.my/invest-in-score/progress-achievement/1819/|publisher=Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy|access-date=13 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113233808/http://www.recoda.com.my/invest-in-score/progress-achievement/1819|archive-date=13 November 2013}} Among the companies that started their operations in the industrial park are Tokuyama Malaysia Sdn Bhd (now replaced by OCI Malaysia Sdn Bhd), Press Metal Bintulu Sdn Bhd, and OM Materials Sdn Bhd.{{cite news|last1=Yussop|first1=Yunus|title=Work on Samalaju Port on track|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/02/13/work-on-samalaju-port-on-track/|access-date=13 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=13 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140309204108/http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/02/13/work-on-samalaju-port-on-track/|archive-date=9 March 2014}}

Rural{{nsndns}}urban migration is significant in Bintulu because of greater job availability in the town. Since 2007,{{cite news|last1=Tony|first1=Thein|title=Bintulu squatters: Please give us housing|url=https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/70776|access-date=27 March 2016|work=Malaysiakini|date=4 August 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327030655/https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/70776|archive-date=27 March 2016}} new residents have started several squatter areas in Bintulu due to inability to find affordable housing,{{cite news|last1=Munan|first1=Sidi|title=Squatters—a problem solved?|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/01/13/squatters-a-problem-solved/|access-date=12 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=13 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150612180014/http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/01/13/squatters-a-problem-solved/|archive-date=12 June 2015}} around Kidurong Industrial estate{{cite news|title=3,000 squatters in Bintulu in dire straits|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2011/03/03/3000-squatters-in-bintulu-in-dire-straits/|access-date=12 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=3 March 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150612180316/http://www.theborneopost.com/2011/03/03/3000-squatters-in-bintulu-in-dire-straits/|archive-date=12 June 2015}} and Sungai Sebatang.{{cite news|last1=Enjane Bali|first1=Josephine|title=SUPP Bintulu holds dialogue with Sg. Sebatang squatters|url=http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/38017/SUPP-Bintulu-holds-dialogue-with-Sg-Sebatang-squatters/|access-date=12 June 2015|publisher=New Sarawak Tribune|date=24 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150612180659/http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/38017/SUPP-Bintulu-holds-dialogue-with-Sg-Sebatang-squatters/|archive-date=12 June 2015}} To address the issue, several low-cost housing projects were initiated by BDA and Sarawak state government to relocate the squatters.{{cite news|last1=Yussop|first1=Yunus|title=State to build 50,000 affordable houses in 5 years—Abg Johari|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/06/13/state-to-build-50000-affordable-houses-in-5-years-abg-johari/#ixzz2W3NAFJYS|access-date=12 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=13 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150612181059/http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/06/13/state-to-build-50000-affordable-houses-in-5-years-abg-johari/|archive-date=12 June 2015}}{{cite news|last1=Yussop|first1=Yunus|title=BDA to help govt achieve zero squatters|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/04/02/bda-to-help-govt-achieve-zero-squatters/|access-date=12 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=2 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150612181451/http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/04/02/bda-to-help-govt-achieve-zero-squatters/|archive-date=12 June 2015}} The state government planned to achieve zero squatters status by the year 2020.{{cite news|last1=Salena|first1=Pail|title=Zero squatters by 2020, says Abang Johari|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/01/22/zero-squatters-by-2020-says-abang-johari/|access-date=27 March 2016|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=22 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150808085540/http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/01/22/zero-squatters-by-2020-says-abang-johari/|archive-date=8 August 2015}} Bintulu also saw the rise in the number of residential and commercial properties such as double-storeyed terraced houses, terraced shopoffices, Kidurong Commercial Centre, and Time Square Shopping Mall.{{cite news|title=Bintulu arising, thrice lucky|url=http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=96424|access-date=27 March 2016|newspaper=Daily Express|date=19 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150620073110/http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=96424|archive-date=20 June 2015}} Residential properties has shown a 20% price increase from 2011 to 2013.{{cite news|title=Bintulu property market sees strong growth this year|url=http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/195/Bintulu-property-market-sees-strong-growth-this-year/|access-date=27 March 2016|publisher=New Sarawak Tribune|date=6 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327045326/http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/195/Bintulu-property-market-sees-strong-growth-this-year/|archive-date=27 March 2016}}

{{see also|Bintulu (federal constituency)}}

File:Bintulu Sarawak Government Offices - panoramio.jpg

File:Bintuludivisiondistrict en.svg]]

Bintulu is represented by Bintulu (P.{{nbsp}}217), Hulu Rajang (P.{{nbsp}}216) and the Selangau (P.{{nbsp}}214) parliamentary seats in the Parliament of Malaysia. The town is also represented by a few state assembly seats namely{{snds}}Jepak, Kakus, Belaga, Kidurong (later it was split into two separate seats namely Tanjong Batu and Samalaju since 2016), Murum and Kemena{{snds}}in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.{{cite web|title=Senarai Bahagian-Bahagian Pilihan Raya Parlimen dan DUN Setiap Negeri-Negeri (List of electoral areas for parliament and state assemblies in each state) |url=http://pmr.penerangan.gov.my/index.php/politik/1637-senarai-bahagian-bahagian-pilihan-raya-parlimen-dan-dun-setiap-negeri-negeri.html |website=1klik |publisher=Jabatan Penerangan Malaysia (Department of Information Malaysia) |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150212164423/http://pmr.penerangan.gov.my/index.php/politik/1637-senarai-bahagian-bahagian-pilihan-raya-parlimen-dan-dun-setiap-negeri-negeri.html |archive-date=12 February 2015 |url-status=dead |access-date=3 September 2016}}

Since 1978 the town of Bintulu has been administered by the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA), with offices located along Jalan Tanjung Kidurong.{{cite web|title=BDA Contact Address|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=36&menu_id=0&sub_id=51|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority|access-date=17 June 2015}} The town is located within the boundary of Bintulu District, with a population of 183,402 and a total area of {{convert|7220.40|km2}}.{{cite web|title=Profil Daerah Bintulu (Bintulu District Profile)|url=http://www.bintuludo.sarawak.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=58&menu_id=0&sub_id=99|publisher=Bintulu District Office|access-date=17 June 2015}}{{dead link|date=July 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Bintulu Division was formerly a Bintulu District under the jurisdiction of Miri Division. The former Bintulu District was upgraded to Bintulu Division on 1 January 1987. At the same time, Bintulu sub-district was upgraded to the present-day Bintulu District. Both the Bintulu Resident and District offices are located inside Wisma Residen, Pisang Keling Street, Bintulu.{{cite web|title=Hubungi Kami (Contact Us)|url=http://www.bintuludo.sarawak.gov.my/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=55&menu_id=0&sub_id=114|publisher=Bintulu District Office|access-date=17 June 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923185803/http://www.bintuludo.sarawak.gov.my/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=55&menu_id=0&sub_id=114|archive-date=23 September 2015}}{{cite web|title=Hubungi Kami (Contact Us)|url=http://www.bintuluro.sarawak.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=88&menu_id=0&sub_id=100|publisher=Bintulu Resident Office|access-date=17 June 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923185802/http://www.bintuluro.sarawak.gov.my/modules/web/pages.php?mod=webpage&sub=page&id=88&menu_id=0&sub_id=100|archive-date=23 September 2015}}

Bintulu is located {{convert|610|km}} northeast of Kuching{{cite web|title=Kuching to Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia|url=https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Kuching,+Sarawak,+Malaysia/Bintulu,+Sarawak,+Malaysia/@2.1075613,110.6221849,8z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x31fb0784258cbf11:0xd37257591ab17e72!2m2!1d110.345!2d1.56!1m5!1m1!1s0x321c3418129dd5fd:0x6c093a65ca63855c!2m2!1d113.0419069!2d3.171322!3e0|publisher=Google Maps|access-date=5 June 2015}} {{convert|216|km}} northeast of Sibu,{{cite web|title=Sibu to Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia|url=https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Sibu,+Sarawak,+Malaysia/Bintulu,+Sarawak,+Malaysia/@2.8613474,112.2475455,9z/data=!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x31f79d6392880301:0x8c69d4d12e6c9c78!2m2!1d111.830535!2d2.287284!1m5!1m1!1s0x321c3418129dd5fd:0x6c093a65ca63855c!2m2!1d113.0419069!2d3.171322!3e0|publisher=Google Maps|access-date=5 June 2015}} and {{convert|200|km}} southwest of Miri.{{cite web|title=Miri to Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia|url=https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Miri,+Sarawak,+Malaysia/Bintulu,+Sarawak,+Malaysia/@3.7852181,113.0023527,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x321941fc74729dcf:0x2e911b344f6c4816!2m2!1d113.9913832!2d4.399493!1m5!1m1!1s0x321c3418129dd5fd:0x6c093a65ca63855c!2m2!1d113.0419069!2d3.171322!3e0|publisher=Google Maps|access-date=5 June 2015}} Bintulu is located near the mouth of the Kemena River,{{cite web|title=Bintulu|url=http://sarawaktourism.com/bintulu/|publisher=Sarawak Tourism Board|access-date=18 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150331024848/http://sarawaktourism.com/bintulu/|archive-date=31 March 2015 }} in the coastal region of central Sarawak. Geology of the coastal area was formed during the Pleistocene period; silt, clay, and gravel can be found here. Geological formation from the Oligocene period is found in the inland area, which contains limestone, siltstone, and sandstone. The soil is generally soft.{{cite web|title=Preliminary environmental impact assessment (PEIA) Study for The Proposed New Samalaju Port at Similajau, Bintulu, Sarawak|url=http://www.chemsain.com/publicreview/similajauport/Chapter%203%20Existing%20Environment-Physical%20Chemical%20System.pdf|publisher=Chemsain Konsultant Sdn Bhd|access-date=24 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150624092901/http://www.chemsain.com/publicreview/similajauport/Chapter%203%20Existing%20Environment-Physical%20Chemical%20System.pdf|archive-date=24 June 2015}}

There are two monsoon seasons in the Bintulu: the northeast monsoon (November to March) and the southwest monsoon (May to September). The calm period between these two monsoons is known as the transitional period. In the coastal region, maximum rainfall occurs in the month of January, while minimal rainfall occurs from the period June to August. Rainfall is more evenly distributed in the inland areas. The annual rainfall of the Bintulu region is about {{convert|3750|mm|in|abbr=on}} annually. The mean daily hours of sunshine at Bintulu is about 5.0 to 5.5 hours. Bintulu receives on average 14 to 15 mJ/m² of radiation throughout the year. Bintulu's relative humidity is 85%.

{{Bintulu weatherbox}}

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The growth of Bintulu's population is shown below:

The issue of gangsters in Bintulu was first raised in 2007 by the member of parliament (MP) for Bintulu.{{cite news|title=Police closing in gangsters|url=https://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-140306359.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160505011515/https://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-140306359.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 May 2016|access-date=27 March 2016|newspaper=New Straits Times|date=8 June 2007|quote=These include the notorious Sungei Merah, Kong Pia, Hua Kee (Sibu), Taxi Station (Miri), Market (Kuching), Ah Seng (Sarikei) and Tua Chek (Bintulu) gangs.}} The gangsters may have run businesses related to illegal logging, controlling the prices of diesel, eggs, fertiliser and gas cylinders. Bintulu police have been cracking down on gangster activities in the town.{{cite news|title='Don't make Bintulu a Mafia town'|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/12/03/dont-make-bintulu-a-mafia-town/|access-date=27 March 2016|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=3 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130727105233/http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/12/03/dont-make-bintulu-a-mafia-town/|archive-date=27 July 2013}}{{cite news|title=Gan: Police have leads in Bintulu crime activities|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/07/09/gan-police-have-leads-in-bintulu-crime-activities/|access-date=27 March 2016|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=9 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160124222827/http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/07/09/gan-police-have-leads-in-bintulu-crime-activities/|archive-date=24 January 2016}} Unscrupulous businessmen who seek cheap labour have caused a rise in the number of illegal immigrants in Bintulu.{{cite news|title=Sarawak deports 513 illegals|url=http://www.therakyatpost.com/news/2015/06/24/sarawak-deports-513-illegals/|access-date=27 March 2016|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=9 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629033019/http://www.therakyatpost.com/news/2015/06/24/sarawak-deports-513-illegals/|archive-date=29 June 2015}} The number may have reached 50,000 in 2009.{{cite news|title=Bintulu has more than 50,000 illegal immigrants says Resident|url=http://www.bintulu.org/2009/01/01/bintulu-50000-illegal-immigrants-resident.php|access-date=27 March 2016|publisher=Bintulu Weekly|date=1 January 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327062925/http://www.bintulu.org/2009/01/01/bintulu-50000-illegal-immigrants-resident.php|archive-date=27 March 2016}} Bintulu immigration department has performed several operations to deport illegal immigrants back to their home country.{{cite news|title=Review existing laws to curb illegals in Bintulu|url=http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1344328|access-date=27 March 2016|newspaper=The Sun Daily|date=3 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160204052501/http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1344328|archive-date=4 February 2016}}{{cite news|last1=Yunus|first1=Yussop/|title='Ops Selera' nets 78 illegal immigrants|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/10/03/ops-selera-nets-78-illegal-immigrants/|access-date=27 March 2016|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=3 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008205727/http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/10/03/ops-selera-nets-78-illegal-immigrants/|archive-date=8 October 2013}}

{{bar box

|title=Ethnic composition in Bintulu

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|left1=Ethnic group

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{{bar percent|Iban|#FFAA1D|39.6}}

{{bar percent|Chinese|#CE2029|16.8}}

{{bar percent|Non-Citizen|#CB6D51|15.2}}

{{bar percent|Malay|#B0BF1A|10.9}}

{{bar percent|Melanau|#F88379|9.2}}

{{bar percent|Other Bumiputera|#A3C1AD|6.2}}

{{bar percent|Others|#C154C1|0.6}}

}}As of the 2010 Malaysian census, the population of the town of Bintulu is 114,058. Indigenous people accounted for the largest proportion of the town population (61.2%, 69,782), followed by Chinese (25.0%, 28,512), Non-Malaysians (13.1%, 14,939), and Indians (0.3%, 319). Among the indigenous groups, there are Iban (32,992), Malay (14,945), Melanau (14,179), Bidayuh (1,598), and other indigenous tribes (6,068). According to government sources, there are 229 Iban longhouses in the Bintulu District. The Ibans moved into Kemena and Tatau basins in the mid-19th and early 20th century with permission of the Brooke government. Other indigenous tribes that form the minority are Kayan, Kenyah, and Punan. The Chinese in Bintulu are mainly composed of dialect groups such as Hakka, Fuzhou, and Teochews. The Chinese have been living in the town of Tatau since the era of Bruneian Empire. Later, Fuzhou Chinese from Sibu moved in, dominating the timber and plantation businesses in Bintulu.{{cite web|last1=Kato|first1=Yumi|last2=Samejima|first2=Hiromitsu|last3=Soda|first3=Ryoji|last4=Uchibori|first4=Motomitsu|last5=Okuno|first5=Katsumi|last6=Ishikawa|first6=Noboru|title=Ethnoscape of Riverine Society in Bintulu Division|url=http://biomasssociety.org/en/2014/02/ethnoscape-of-riverine-society-in-bintulu-division%E3%80%80yumi-kato-et-al/|publisher=Centre of Southeast Asian Studies Kyoto University|access-date=26 June 2015|quote=The rest of this article provides concise introductions of ethnic groups in Bintulu, such as the Iban, Kayan, Kenyah and Punan (Fig. 3).}} There is also a large number of foreigners working there. Most of them come from Britain, Australia, the Netherlands, Germany, South Africa, New Zealand, Japan, China, the United States, and Indonesia.{{cite web|title=Bintulu|url=https://bintulu.globaloutpostservices.com/about/general-information.dot|publisher=Shell – Global Outpost Services|access-date=26 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626150332/https://bintulu.globaloutpostservices.com/about/general-information.dot|archive-date=26 June 2015}}

While Malay and English are the official language of Sarawak; Iban is widely spoken there. Local ethnic languages and Chinese dialects are spoken by the respective ethnic groups. Standard Chinese is also spoken by ethnic Chinese in Bintulu. Bintulu is spoken by communities living along the Kemena River,{{cite journal|last1=Blust|first1=Robert A.|title=The origins of Bintulu 6, d1|journal=Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies|date=October 1973|volume=36|issue=3|pages=603–620|doi=10.1017/S0041977X00119871|publisher=Cambridge University Press}} with 4,200 native speakers. These speakers are now recognised as part of the Melanau ethnic group, where their main language is Malay. Bintulu is classified as one of the endangered languages in Sarawak because of the isolated usage of the language in a small community.{{cite web|title=Bintulu-Language metadata description|url=http://www.endangeredlanguages.com/lang/bny|website=endangered languages.com|publisher=Endangered Languages Project|access-date=27 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150627024121/http://www.endangeredlanguages.com/lang/bny|archive-date=27 June 2015}}{{cite web|last1=Lewis|first1=M. Paul|last2=Gary F|first2=Simons|last3=Charles D.|first3=Fanning|title=Ethnologue: Languages of the World, Eighteenth edition – Bintulu – A language of Malaysia|url=http://www.ethnologue.com/language/bny|website=ethnologue.com|publisher=SIL International|access-date=27 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626140815/http://www.ethnologue.com/language/bny|archive-date=26 June 2015|date=2015}}

The majority of the Bintulu population are adherents of Christian denominations due to Christian missionaries operating during the Brooke dynasty; followed by Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Among the notable places of worship in Bintulu are the Bintulu Mosque (Masjid Assyakirin),{{cite web|title=Sarawak worship places – Bintulu|url=http://bombasticborneo.com/services/worship-places/sarawak-worship-places/|website=bombasticborneo.com|access-date=27 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150405004054/http://bombasticborneo.com/services/worship-places/sarawak-worship-places/|archive-date=5 April 2015}} Masjid Jepak, Tua Pek Kong Temple,{{cite news|last1=Yussop|first1=Yunus|title=A proud landmark in Bintulu|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/01/29/a-proud-landmark-in-bintulu/|access-date=27 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=29 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120205032734/http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/01/29/a-proud-landmark-in-bintulu/|archive-date=5 February 2012}} Eng Kwang Methodist Church,{{cite web|title=恩光堂 Eng Kwang Methodist Church|url=http://www.sarawakmethodist.org/new/?page_id=3398|website=sarawakmethodist.org|access-date=27 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150627055702/http://www.sarawakmethodist.org/new/?page_id=3398|archive-date=27 June 2015}} and St.{{nbsp}}Thomas Church.{{cite web|title=Place of Worship in Bintulu|url=http://www.mygola.com/bintulu-d1011775/place-of-worship|website=mygola.com|access-date=27 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150627055049/http://www.mygola.com/bintulu-d1011775/place-of-worship|archive-date=27 June 2015}} The respective religious groups are free to hold processions in the town.{{cite news|last1=Enjane Bali|first1=Josephine|title=About a thousand partake in Christmas processions|url=http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/17325/About-a-thousand-partake-in-Christmas-procession/|access-date=3 July 2015|publisher=New Sarawak Tribune|date=16 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703090429/http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/17325/About-a-thousand-partake-in-Christmas-procession/|archive-date=3 July 2015}}{{cite news|title=Maulidur Rasul procession to be held on 14 January|url=http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/18794/Maulidur-Rasul-procession-to-be-held-on-14-January/|access-date=3 July 2015|publisher=New Sarawak Tribune|date=11 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703090715/http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/18794/Maulidur-Rasul-procession-to-be-held-on-14-January/|archive-date=3 July 2015}}

File:Bintulu LNG port.jpg

There are five industrial estates in Bintulu. They are: Kemena Industrial Estate (for wood-based industries), Jepak Industries Estate (wood-based industries), Kidurong Industrial Area (for medium and light industries), Kidurong Light Industrial Estate (medium and light industries), and Bintulu Light Industrial Estate (light industry).{{cite web|title=Tropical Timber|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/page.php?id=58&menu_id=0&sub_id=73|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705104649/http://www.bda.gov.my/page.php?id=58&menu_id=0&sub_id=73|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 July 2015|website=bda.gov.my|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority|access-date=3 July 2015}}{{cite web|title=Industrial Estate by Division|url=http://www.sarawak.gov.my/web/home/article_view/211/227/|website=sarawak.gov.my|publisher=Official website of the Sarawak Government|access-date=3 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315050820/http://sarawak.gov.my/web/home/article_view/211/227/|archive-date=15 March 2015}}

Malaysia LNG is a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) manufacturing complex located in Bintulu that currently contains eight LNG trains with a ninth one currently under construction. The complex was built by the Malaysian national oil and gas company, Petronas.{{cite web|title=JGC Malaysia Wins LNG Plant Rejuvenation Project in Malaysia|url=http://www.jgc.com.my/news/jgc-malaysia-wins-lng-plant-rejuvenation-project-in-malaysia|access-date=3 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509132546/http://jgc.com.my/news/jgc-malaysia-wins-lng-plant-rejuvenation-project-in-malaysia|archive-date=9 May 2015|date=5 March 2014}} The manufacturing complex has a production capacity of 25.7 million tonnes per annum. Petronas is also planning to open Floating LNG (FLNG) offshore Bintulu, which is used specifically to harvest natural gas from small and isolated gas fields. Transportation of natural gas from Kimanis in the neighbouring state of Sabah, to the LNG complex at Bintulu is facilitated by a {{convert|512|km|adj=on}} pipeline known as the "Sabah–Sarawak Gas Pipeline".{{cite web|title=A mountain of a project: the Sabah Sarawak Gas Pipeline|url=http://pipelinesinternational.com/news/a_mountain_of_a_project_the_sabah_sarawak_gas_pipeline/069353/|publisher=Pipelines International|access-date=3 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140914191650/http://pipelinesinternational.com/news/a_mountain_of_a_project_the_sabah_sarawak_gas_pipeline/069353|archive-date=14 September 2014}} Currently, 45% of Malaysian natural gas is found at Central Luconia off the coast of Bintulu. The largest importers of Malaysia LNG productions are Japan (62%), Korea (17%), Taiwan (12%), and China (9%).{{cite news|last1=Tuah|first1=Yvonne|title=Gas: Fueling the future of energy|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/10/20/gas-fueling-the-future-of-energy/|access-date=3 July 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=20 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024061501/http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/10/20/gas-fueling-the-future-of-energy/|archive-date=24 October 2013}}

The Sarawak Shell Bintulu Plant (SSBP), formerly known as Bintulu Crude Oil Terminal (BCOT), was established in 1979. It consists of three crude oil storage tanks, each with a capacity of 410,000 barrels. It has three major areas of operation: Crude Oil Operations, Condensate Stabilisation, and Gas Sales Facilities.{{cite web|title=Bintulu Development Authority Official Website – Projects|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/page.php?id=59#abf|website=bda.gov.my|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority (BDA)|access-date=3 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705145626/http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/page.php?id=59#abf|archive-date=5 July 2015|url-status=dead}} Royal Dutch Shell started to establish the world's first Shell Middle Distillate Synthesis plant (Shell MDS) in 1993. It is also known as Bintulu Gas-To-Liquid plant (Bintulu GTL). The plant has a production capacity of 14,770 barrels per day with a total investment of over US$1{{nbsp}}billion as of the year 2010. The plant is staffed with 380 people, of whom 93% are Malaysians, with 80% of the staff coming from Sarawak.{{cite web|last1=Robert|first1=Rapier|title=Inside Shell's Bintulu GTL Plant|url=http://www.energytrendsinsider.com/2010/11/14/inside-shells-bintulu-gtl-plant/|publisher=Energy Trends Insider|access-date=3 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140726214150/http://www.energytrendsinsider.com/2010/11/14/inside-shells-bintulu-gtl-plant/|archive-date=26 July 2014|date=14 November 2010}}

Since the opening up of the Bintulu–Miri road in the 1970s, large-scale plantations of oil palm and cocoa has been developed in rural areas of Bintulu Division. Currently, there are 57,740 hectares ({{convert|577.4|km2|abbr=on|0}}) of oil palm, 2,000 hectares ({{convert|200|km2|abbr=on|0}}) of Rattan, and 815 hectares ({{convert|8.15|km2|abbr=on|0}}) of pepper plantations.

The first Bintulu palm oil refinery, Bintulu Edible Oil Sdn Bhd, was established in June 1991. Bintulu currently has four palm oil refineries: Bintulu Edible Oils Sdn Bhd (operated under PGEO Group, a subsidiary of Wilmar International),{{cite web|title=PGEO Group – Commitment towards excellence|url=http://www.pgeogroup.com.my/profile.htm|publisher=PGEO Group|access-date=6 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315011641/http://pgeogroup.com.my/profile.htm|archive-date=15 March 2015}} Sime Darby Austral Edible Oil Sdn Bhd, Kirana Palm Oil Refinery Sdn Bhd, and Sarawak Oil Palm Bhd.{{cite news|last1=Tugan|first1=Molly|title=Bintulu Port holds discussion with palm oil refinery reps|url=http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/13794/Bintulu-Port-holds-discussion-with-palm-oil-refinery-reps/|access-date=6 July 2015|publisher=New Sarawak Tribune|date=23 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706145548/http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/13794/Bintulu-Port-holds-discussion-with-palm-oil-refinery-reps/|archive-date=6 July 2015}} However, as of 2015, Wilmar no longer buys raw palm oil produced from cleared forests and peat swamps in Sarawak because of environmental concerns.{{cite news|last1=Davidson|first1=Desmond|title=Singapore-based refinery will no longer buy Sarawak's palm oil, says Masing|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/singapore-based-refinery-will-no-longer-buy-sarawaks-palm-oil-says-masing|access-date=6 July 2015|newspaper=The Malaysian Insider|date=14 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140302203718/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/singapore-based-refinery-will-no-longer-buy-sarawaks-palm-oil-says-masing|archive-date=2 March 2014}}

The Bintulu Division has been designated as a Planted Forests Zone (PFZ) by the Sarawak state government since 1998. As of 30 June 2011, a total of 124,618 hectares ({{convert|1246.18|km2|sqmi|abbr=on|0}}) has been planted with acacia trees.{{cite web|title=PERKASA – Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (April–June 2011 newsletter)|url=http://www.sarawaktimber.org.my/publication/1313394315-Part%201.pdf|publisher=Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150618025358/http://www.sarawaktimber.org.my/publication/1313394315-Part%201.pdf |archive-date=18 June 2015 |url-status=live |access-date=3 September 2016|quote=The designation of Bintulu Division as the Planted Forest Zone (PFZ) manifests the government's commitment in realising its objective to establish one million hectares of planted forests by 2020.}} Other trees that are planned for plantations are kelampayan, engkabang, durian, batai, eucalyptus, and rubber trees.{{cite news|last1=Cheng|first1=Lian|last2=Yap|first2=Joanna|title=Matured Acacia unharvested due to absence of pulp mill|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/07/20/matured-acacia-unharvested-due-to-absence-of-pulp-mill/|access-date=18 June 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=20 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150618032746/http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/07/20/matured-acacia-unharvested-due-to-absence-of-pulp-mill/|archive-date=18 June 2015}} Sarawak Planted Forest Sdn Bhd,{{cite web|title=Sarawak Planted Forest Sdn Bhd|url=http://www.bintulubiz.com/directory/sarawak-planted-forest-sdn-bhd|website=bintulubiz.com|access-date=18 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150424090039/http://www.bintulubiz.com/directory/sarawak-planted-forest-sdn-bhd|archive-date=24 April 2015}} a company wholly owned by the Sarawak state government, has been granted a licence to replant forests for 60 years. However, the company has been suffering financial losses from 2009 to 2011.{{cite news|title=A-G gives thumbs down to loss-making state-owned company|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Community/2013/12/04/AG-gives-thumbs-down-to-lossmaking-stateowned-company/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150618033834/http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Community/2013/12/04/AG-gives-thumbs-down-to-lossmaking-stateowned-company/|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 June 2015|access-date=18 June 2015|newspaper=The Star (Malaysia)|date=4 December 2013}}

There are three mills in Bintulu that process wood-waste products. Two are Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) plants and the third is a charcoal briquette plant, with a total installed capacity of {{convert|246000|m3}} per year. MDF plants utilise wood waste purchased from sawmills and plywood mills in the Bintulu area and occasionally from the Tanjung Manis timber processing zone located at the mouth of the Rajang River. Synthetic resins, which are required to hold wood dust together, constituted 20% of the total production cost of the wood panel products.{{cite web|title=PRE-FEASIBILITY STUDY ON A PROPOSED WOOD WASTE BASED POWER AND HEAT PLANT IN BINTULU, SARAWAK |url=http://www.ecoideal.com.my/danidaurban/uems/download/SW%202%20Proposed%20Wood-Waste-based%20Power%20and%20Heat%20Plant%20in%20Bintulu,%20Sarawak.pdf |publisher=Eco-Ideal Consulting Sdn Bhd |access-date=3 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703225534/http://www.ecoideal.com.my/danidaurban/uems/download/SW%202%20Proposed%20Wood-Waste-based%20Power%20and%20Heat%20Plant%20in%20Bintulu%2C%20Sarawak.pdf |archive-date=3 July 2015 |location=Sarawak |pages=34– |date=April 2006 |quote=In Bintulu, 3 major mills are established which convert wood waste into products (Table 8). Among these, 2 are medium density fibreboard (MDF) plants and one is a charcoal briquette plant with a total installed capacity of 246,000 m3/year. |url-status=dead }} MDF plants in Bintulu are operated by Daiken Sarawak Sdn Bhd, which was founded on 15 February 1994.{{cite web|title=Company Profile: Daiken Sarawak Sdn Bhd|url=http://www.wesleynet.com/malaysia/ecatalogue/profile.php?Co_Code=1429|website=wesleynet.com|access-date=3 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703225326/http://www.wesleynet.com/malaysia/ecatalogue/profile.php?Co_Code=1429|archive-date=3 July 2015}} The briquette plant is operated by Cipta Briquette Sdn Bhd. A glue/adhesive factory in Bintulu is owned by Bintulu Adhesive & Chemicals Sdn Bhd. It produces urea formaldehyde resin and phenol formaldehyde resin for plywood and chipboard manufacturing at Kemena Industrial Estate. Urea precondensate is also produced to supply ASEAN Bintulu Fertiliser plant.

File:RTG at Bintulu International Container Terminal (BICT).jpg at Bintulu International Container Terminal]]

The Bintulu Port Authority was established in 1981. It started port operation in 1983 at Tanjung Kidurong. Following a privatisation exercise, Bintulu Port Sdn Bhd (BPSB) was founded on 23 December 1992 and commenced operation on 1 January 1993. BPA is currently responsible for regulatory exercises and security of the port. Meanwhile, BPSB is responsible for cargo handling at the Bintulu International Container Terminal (BICT).{{cite web|title=Corporate Milestones|url=http://www.bpsb.com.my/Port/About-Us/Corporate-Milestones/|publisher=Bintulu Port Sdn Bhd|access-date=5 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705151723/http://www.bpsb.com.my/Port/About-Us/Corporate-Milestones/|archive-date=5 July 2015}}{{cite web|title=Sejarah Lembaga Pelabuhan Bintulu (The History of Bintulu Port Authority)|url=http://www.bpa.gov.my/web/home/article_view/158/167/|website=bpa.gov.my|publisher=Bintulu Port Authority|access-date=5 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140709024823/http://www.bpa.gov.my/web/home/article_view/158/167/|archive-date=9 July 2014|language=ms|date=8 April 2013}} The port also provides Vessel traffic service to shipping vessels. The annual total cargo throughput is 45.4 million tonnes, consisting of 58% LNG and 42% non-LNG products.{{cite news|title=Bintulu Port aims to cut dependency on LNG business via new projects|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Community/2014/04/22/Bintulu-Port-aims-to-cut-dependency-on-LNG-business-via-new-projects/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705153100/http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Community/2014/04/22/Bintulu-Port-aims-to-cut-dependency-on-LNG-business-via-new-projects/|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 July 2015|access-date=5 July 2015|newspaper=The Star (Malaysia)|date=22 April 2014}} As of 31 December 2014, it generated a total revenue of RM{{nbsp}}552.3 million per year.{{cite news|last1=Wong |first1=Jack |title=Six Bintulu Port projects planned |url=http://www.thestar.com.my/Business/Business-News/2015/04/29/Six-Bintulu-Port-projects-planned/?style=biz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150501221950/http://www.thestar.com.my/Business/Business-News/2015/04/29/Six-Bintulu-Port-projects-planned/?style=biz |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 May 2015 |access-date=5 July 2015 |newspaper=The Star (Malaysia) |date=29 April 2015 }} Bintulu Port is the busiest port in Sarawak.{{cite news|title=Transport Ministry has spent RM150 mln on Bintulu Port|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/04/21/transport-ministry-has-spent-rm150-mln-on-bintulu-port/|access-date=20 July 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=21 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150720061514/http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/04/21/transport-ministry-has-spent-rm150-mln-on-bintulu-port/|archive-date=20 July 2015|quote=For now, Bintulu Port is the largest port in Sarawak, but I think Samalaju Port can overtake it in years to come.}}

The ASEAN Bintulu Fertiliser plant is the anhydrous ammonia and granular plant operated by ASEAN Bintulu Fertiliser Sdn Bhd (ABF), which is partly owned by Petronas.{{cite web|title=Asean Bintulu Fertilizer Sdn Bhd|url=http://www.petronas.com.my/about-us/petronas-directory/Pages/PETRONAS%20Directory/Asean-Bintulu-Fertilizer-Sdn-Bhd.aspx|publisher=Petronas|access-date=3 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150325235619/http://www.petronas.com.my/about-us/petronas-directory/Pages/PETRONAS%20Directory/Asean-Bintulu-Fertilizer-Sdn-Bhd.aspx|archive-date=25 March 2015}} The company was formed on 6 December 1980. The plant started operation on 1 October 1985. It is also one of the largest granular urea plants in Asia. It is a joint venture by five ASEAN countries: Malaysia (63.5% shares), Thailand (13%), Indonesia (13%), Vietnam (9.5%), and Singapore (1%).

Cahya Mata Sarawak Berhad (CMSB), one of the largest publicly traded companies in Sarawak, set up a cement plant in Bintulu at Kidurong Industrial Estate. The plant, staffed by 40 people, produces ordinary Portland cement and Portland blast furnace cement. It currently has a combined production capacity of 2.75 million MT (million tonnes).{{cite news|title=Cement production at Bintulu plant returns to normal|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/04/09/cement-production-at-bintulu-plant-returns-to-normal/|access-date=5 July 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=9 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705145337/http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/04/09/cement-production-at-bintulu-plant-returns-to-normal/|archive-date=5 July 2015}}

The Bintulu combined cycle power plant was started in early 2010 with a capacity of 317 megawatts. The power plant is registered under the United Nations Clean Development Management (CDM) scheme as of 18 September 2010. The plant is built to ensure efficient use of energy and reduce green house gas emissions. It is the first CDM power plant in Malaysia, currently operated by Sarawak Power Generation Sdn Bhd (SPG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sarawak Energy.{{cite web|title=Sarawak Energy – About Hydropower – Fact sheets|url=http://www.sarawakenergy.com.my/index.php/hydroelectric-projects/fact-sheets/11-about-us|publisher=Sarawak Energy Berhad|access-date=7 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707141953/http://www.sarawakenergy.com.my/index.php/hydroelectric-projects/fact-sheets/11-about-us|archive-date=7 July 2015|quote=During the first quarter of 2010 the Bintulu combined cycle project, with a combined capacity of 317MW, was successfully commissioned. The Bintulu plant was registered with the United Nations under the Clean Development Management (CDM) scheme on 18 September 2010. The CDM scheme is part of the Kyoto Protocol environmental agreement and aims to encourage sustainable development and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Bintulu facility is the first CDM plant in Malaysia.}}{{cite web|title=Project 2594 : Bintulu Combined-Cycle Project STG Unit No. 9, Tanjung Kidurong, Bintulu, Sarawak|url=https://cdm.unfccc.int/Projects/DB/JQA1242805064.94/view|publisher=United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change|access-date=7 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707142724/https://cdm.unfccc.int/Projects/DB/JQA1242805064.94/view|archive-date=7 July 2015}}

File:Bintulu wharf terminal.jpg

All roads in Bintulu are maintained by the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA). Bintulu is connected to Miri and Sibu by the Pan Borneo Highway.{{cite web|title=Miri-Bintulu Coastal Road|url=http://www.juruterajasa.com/html/projects_undertaken/project_undertaken_miribintulucoastalrd.html|publisher=Jurutera Jasa Sdn Bhd|access-date=8 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819195910/http://www.juruterajasa.com/html/projects_undertaken/project_undertaken_miribintulucoastalrd.html|archive-date=19 August 2014 }}{{cite web|title=Sibu-Bintulu Roads Phase 1 and 2 (from Kemena Industrial Estate to New Bintulu Airport) and Kemena Bridge, Sarawak|url=http://www.naim.com.my/construction/sibu-bintulu-roads-phase-1-and-2-from-kemena-industrial-estate-to-new-bintulu-airport-and-kemena-bridge-sarawak/|publisher=Naim Holdings Berhad|access-date=8 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708131858/http://www.naim.com.my/construction/sibu-bintulu-roads-phase-1-and-2-from-kemena-industrial-estate-to-new-bintulu-airport-and-kemena-bridge-sarawak/|archive-date=8 July 2015}} Bintulu is also connected to Mukah{{cite news|title=Mukah-Bintulu travel time reduced once RM230mil road completed|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Community/2014/03/27/MukahBintulu-travel-time-reduced-once-RM230mil-road-completed/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708132445/http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Community/2014/03/27/MukahBintulu-travel-time-reduced-once-RM230mil-road-completed/|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 July 2015|access-date=8 July 2015|newspaper=The Star (Malaysia)|date=27 March 2014}} and Samalaju Industrial Park.{{cite news|last1=Yussop|first1=Yunus|title=Federal government helps upgrade roads in Bintulu|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/04/26/federal-government-helps-upgrade-roads-in-bintulu/|access-date=8 July 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=26 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708133039/http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/04/26/federal-government-helps-upgrade-roads-in-bintulu/|archive-date=8 July 2015}} Kemena Bridge crosses the Kemena River. It is the second bridge in Malaysia built using the incremental launch method.{{cite web|title=Kemena Bridge, Bintulu, Sarawak|url=http://www.naim.com.my/construction/kemena-bridge-bintulu-sarawak/|publisher=Naim Holdings Sdn Bhd|access-date=8 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708133752/http://www.naim.com.my/construction/kemena-bridge-bintulu-sarawak/|archive-date=8 July 2015}} Keppel Road in Bintulu is named after a friend of James Brooke, Sir Henry Keppel.{{cite news|last1=Lamah|first1=Bakar|title=The story behind the state's streets and roads|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/story/?sec=sarawak&file=%2F2011%2F3%2F1%2Fsarawak%2F8124293|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207131130/http://www.thestar.com.my/story/?sec=sarawak&file=%2F2011%2F3%2F1%2Fsarawak%2F8124293|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 February 2015|access-date=9 July 2015|newspaper=The Star (Malaysia)|date=1 March 2011|quote=Jalan Keppel, Bintulu – Honorable Sir Henry Keppel, C.B.E (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) and Admiral of the Fleet was a close friend of the first and second Rajahs.}}

Bintulu has a long-distance bus station, located at Medan Jaya, {{convert|5|km|mi|abbr=on|0}} northeast of the town centre. Among the areas served by the bus station are: Miri, Sibu, Kuching, Mukah, Sarikei, Oya, Dalat, Balingian, and Pontianak, Indonesia.{{cite web|title=Bintulu Online – Your Online Guide to Bintulu – Transportation|url=http://www.isarawak.com.my/bintulu/transportation.html|website=isarawak.com.my|access-date=10 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120226154307/http://www.isarawak.com.my/bintulu/transportation.html|archive-date=26 February 2012 }}{{cite web|title=Lonely Planet – Bintulu, Malaysia – Bus|url=http://www.lonelyplanet.com/malaysia/malaysian-borneo-sarawak/bintulu/transport/getting-there-away/land|publisher=Lonely Planet|access-date=10 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710085912/http://www.lonelyplanet.com/malaysia/malaysian-borneo-sarawak/bintulu/transport/getting-there-away/land|archive-date=10 July 2015}} The bus companies that serve the station are the Syarikat Baram Sdn. Bhd, MTC, Biaramas, and Suria bus lines.{{cite web|title=Bintulu regional express bus terminal|url=http://www.etawau.com/Geography/Sarawak/09_Bintulu/Bintulu/Regional_Bus_Terminal.htm|website=etawau.com|access-date=13 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713091605/http://www.etawau.com/Geography/Sarawak/09_Bintulu/Bintulu/Regional_Bus_Terminal.htm|archive-date=13 July 2015}} There are also buses that serve the town area.{{cite web|title=Getting There – Land|url=http://www.borneokite.com/get_there.php|publisher=Borneo International Kite Festival|access-date=13 July 2015|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625101451/http://www.borneokite.com/get_there.php|archive-date=25 June 2012}} Taxi service is also available.{{cite web|title=Sarawak Taxi|url=http://bombasticborneo.com/services/taxi/sarawak-taxi/|website=bombasticborneo.com|access-date=13 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150701214957/http://bombasticborneo.com/services/taxi/sarawak-taxi/|archive-date=1 July 2015}}

The old Bintulu airport was built in 1955 in the town centre.{{cite web|last1=Mahmud|first1=Yussop|title=Images of Bintulu Before and Now – Old Bintulu Airport Building in 1955|url=http://bintulub4now.blogspot.com/2013/12/old-bintulu-airport-building-in-1955.html|website=blogspot.com|access-date=10 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150617125518/http://bintulub4now.blogspot.com/2013/12/old-bintulu-airport-building-in-1955.html|archive-date=17 June 2015}} It once held the Guinness World Record of nearest airport to town. On 19 December 2002, the airport was replaced by a new airport, which is located {{convert|23|km|mi|abbr=on}} away from the town centre. The surroundings of the old airport were developed into commercial and residential projects while the runway is reserved for Bintulu International Kite Festival. The new airport has a runway measuring {{convert|2745|m|ft|abbr=on}},{{cite web|title=About Bintulu Airport|url=http://www.klia.com.my/?m=business&c=business_about&id=2|publisher=Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad|access-date=13 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150320220033/http://www.klia.com.my/?m=business&c=business_about&id=2|archive-date=20 March 2015}}{{cite web|title=WBGB Bintulu – WBGB AD 2.12 RUNWAY PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS|url=http://aip.dca.gov.my/aip%20pdf/AD/AD2/WBGB/WBGB%20-%20Bintulu.pdf|publisher=Department of Civil Aviation, Malaysia|access-date=13 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131228221840/http://aip.dca.gov.my/aip%20pdf/AD/AD2/WBGB/WBGB%20-%20Bintulu.pdf|archive-date=28 December 2013 }} capable of handling planes as large as the Airbus A330.{{cite web|title=Transport|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/page_print.php?id=56|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority|access-date=13 July 2015}} The airport currently serves three major airlines: Malaysia Airlines (MAS), Air Asia, and MASwings, connecting to domestic destinations such as: Sibu, Miri, Kuching, Kuala Lumpur, and Kota Kinabalu,{{cite web|title=Bintulu Airport Live Flight Information|url=http://ourairports.com/airports/WBGB/flights.html|website=ourairports.com|access-date=13 July 2015}} and the first international destination, Singapore will start the direct flight since 26 December 2017.[http://m.themalaymailonline.com/travel/article/airasia-launches-bintulu-singapore-with-free-seats AirAsia launches Bintulu-Singapore route with free seats] Malaysia Online, 4 November 2017

There is a wharf terminal at Bintulu that serves the rural areas of Bintulu Division. Among the destinations that can be reached by express boat from Bintulu are: Sebauh, Pandan, Labang, Tubau, and Binyo.{{cite web|title=How to get to Bintulu, Malaysia|url=http://www.journeum.com/dst/Asia/Malaysia/Sarawak/Bintulu/Getting%20there/|website=journeum.com|access-date=14 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714123557/http://www.journeum.com/dst/Asia/Malaysia/Sarawak/Bintulu/Getting%20there/|archive-date=14 July 2015}}

The current court complex is located at Pisang Emas Road.{{cite web|title=List of Court addresses – High Court Sarawak (Kuching, Bintulu, Miri & Sibu)|url=http://www.cljlaw.com/?page=courtaddr|publisher=CLJ Legal Network Sdn Bhd|access-date=28 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150228024826/http://www.cljlaw.com/?page=courtaddr|archive-date=28 February 2015}} It comprises the High Court, the Sessions Court, and the Magistrate Court.{{cite web|url=http://www.highcourt.sabah.sarawak.gov.my/apps/highcourt/v3/modules/highcourt_web/page.php?id=4 |title=Structure of The Court (STRUCTURE OF THE HIGH COURT IN SABAH & SARAWAK) |publisher=The High Court in Sabah and Sarawak |access-date=10 June 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140330065620/http://www.highcourt.sabah.sarawak.gov.my/apps/highcourt/v3/modules/highcourt_web/page.php?id=4 |archive-date=30 March 2014 }} Bintulu also has Syariah Subordinate Court, located at Tanjung Kidurong, whose area of jurisdiction covers Bintulu District and Tatau districts.{{cite web|title=Bintulu – Syariah Subordinate Court|url=http://www.esyariah.gov.my/portal/page/portal/Portal%20E-Syariah%20BI/Portal%20E-Syariah%20Direktori%20Mahkamah/Portal%20E-Syariah%20Direktori%20Sarawak#h|publisher=Department of Syariah Judiciary Malaysia|access-date=18 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150718024647/http://www.esyariah.gov.my/portal/page/portal/Portal%20E-Syariah%20BI/Portal%20E-Syariah%20Direktori%20Mahkamah/Portal%20E-Syariah%20Direktori%20Sarawak|archive-date=18 July 2015}} There is also a central prison in Bintulu,{{cite news|last1=Zaidi|first1=Nornasheila|title=Bintulu prison to be operational by early 2014|url=http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/14513/Bintulu-prison-to-be-operational-by-early-2014/|access-date=18 July 2015|publisher=New Sarawak Tribune|date=3 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150718025832/http://www.newsarawaktribune.com/news/14513/Bintulu-prison-to-be-operational-by-early-2014/|archive-date=18 July 2015}} which doubles as a correctional centre.{{cite news|last1=Johnson|first1=K Saai|title=Prisons as correctional centres|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/11/02/prisons-as-correctional-centres/|access-date=18 July 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=2 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150718030128/http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/11/02/prisons-as-correctional-centres/|archive-date=18 July 2015}}

File:Bintulu Medical Centre.jpg

Bintulu Hospital started operation in 1968. It is located at Nyabau Road, {{convert|12|km|mi|abbr=on}} from the town centre. Following renovations completed on 21 May 2000, the hospital is now equipped with 200 beds.{{cite web|title=Latar Belakang Hospital – Hospital background|url=http://hbtu.moh.gov.my/bm/latar-belakang-hospital/|publisher=Bintulu General Hospital|access-date=18 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150609151238/http://hbtu.moh.gov.my/bm/latar-belakang-hospital/|archive-date=9 June 2015 |language=ms}} As of 2011, the hospital provides speciality services in seven medical disciplines.{{cite web|title=Specialty and Subspecialty Framework of Ministry of Health Hospitals 10 MP (2010–2015) |url=http://www.moh.gov.my/images/gallery/Report/Specialty&Subspecialty_2010_15.pdf |publisher=Ministry of Health Malaysia |access-date=18 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150318164610/http://www.moh.gov.my/images/gallery/Report/Specialty%26Subspecialty_2010_15.pdf |archive-date=18 March 2015 |quote=Hospital Selayang, Hospital Sultan Abdul Halim Sungai Petani and Hospital Taiping has the highest number of services provision with 17 resident specialty and subspecialty services while Hospital Tanah Merah, Hospital Bintulu, Hospital Segamat and Hospital Kemamam is the lowest with 7 resident specialty and subspecialty services provided. |url-status=dead }} Bintulu also has one polyclinic, Polyclinic Bintulu.{{cite news|last1=Yunus|first1=Yussop|title='Jamban gantung' a health nightmare – Dr Jerip|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/08/10/jamban-gantung-a-health-nightmare-dr-jerip/|access-date=18 July 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=10 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150718052902/http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/08/10/jamban-gantung-a-health-nightmare-dr-jerip/|archive-date=18 July 2015|quote="This is because the water source is not only used by animals and human, but it is also a place where children play and bathe, and where women do their laundry and wash dishes, especially in some longhouses," he told reporters after being briefed at the new Bintulu Polyclinic on the cholera outbreak here on Wednesday.}} There are two private hospitals in Bintulu: Columbia Asia Hospital{{cite web|title=Columbia Asia Hospital Bintulu|url=http://www.columbiaasia.com/bintulu/|publisher=Columbia Asia Hospital|access-date=18 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518064413/http://www.columbiaasia.com/bintulu/|archive-date=18 May 2015}} and Bintulu Medical Centre.{{cite web|title=Bintulu Medical Centre – About Us|url=http://www.bintulumedicalcentre.com/about-us/|publisher=Bintulu Medical Centre|access-date=18 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150718054709/http://www.bintulumedicalcentre.com/about-us/|archive-date=18 July 2015}}

{{See also|List of schools in Sarawak}}

File:The library of UPM Bintulu campus, Sarawak.jpg main Library]]

There are about 50 primary and eight secondary schools in Bintulu.{{cite web|title=Education – Primary and secondary schools|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/page.php?id=90&menu_id=0&sub_id=106|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority|access-date=15 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715223614/http://www.bda.gov.my/page.php?id=90&menu_id=0&sub_id=106|archive-date=15 July 2015|url-status=dead}} All the schools under the National Education System are managed by the Bintulu District Education Office.{{cite web|title=Peta lokasi pejabat (Location of the office)|url=http://www.ppdbtu.edu.my/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=153&Itemid=111|publisher=Bintulu District Education Office|access-date=15 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715161104/http://www.ppdbtu.edu.my/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=153&Itemid=111|archive-date=15 July 2015|language=ms}} The oldest primary schools in Miri are St{{nbsp}}Anthony's Primary School (Roman Catholic Mission School), Chung Hua Primary School, and the Orang Kaya Mohammad Primary School, which were established in the early 1960s. The Bintulu Government Secondary School was built in 1964. It is now known as SMK Bintulu, the oldest secondary school in the town. Bintulu also has one Chinese independent school, Kai Dee Middle School (开智中学).{{cite web|title=砂拉越华文独中通讯录 (Communication directory of Sarawak Chinese independent schools)|url=http://shadongzong.org/secondary-schools/|access-date=1 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231125149/http://shadongzong.org/secondary-schools/|archive-date=31 December 2013|language=zh}} The Shell Oil Company established the Kidurong International School in 1982 to meet the primary education needs of Shell employees' children. The school provides English National Curriculum (ENC) for literacy and numeracy and International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for other subjects.{{cite web|title=Bintulu – Kidurong International School|url=https://bintulu.globaloutpostservices.com/about/kidurong-international-school.dot|publisher=Global Outpost Services|access-date=15 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629071048/https://bintulu.globaloutpostservices.com/about/kidurong-international-school.dot|archive-date=29 June 2015}}

UPM Bintulu Sarawak Campus was started as the National Resource Training Centre, Kuching, in 1974. The oldest campus in Sarawak, it was relocated to Bintulu in 1987 as a branch campus of the Universiti Pertanian Malaysia (UPM). The campus was closed down in 1992 before reopening in 2001 as Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). During this period of closure, the campus was used as the site for Maktab Perguruan Sains Bintulu (Bintulu Science Teachers' Training College) from 1994{{cite news|last1=Ahmad Termizi|first1=Amizul Tunizar|title=UPM Bintulu nadi pembangunan SCORE (UPM Bintulu is the pulse of SCORE development)|url=http://ww1.utusan.com.my/utusan/Rencana/20140321/re_06/UPM-Bintulu-nadi-pembangunan-SCORE|access-date=20 July 2015|newspaper=Utusan Malaysia|date=21 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150720124952/http://ww1.utusan.com.my/utusan/Rencana/20140321/re_06/UPM-Bintulu-nadi-pembangunan-SCORE|archive-date=20 July 2015|language=ms}} to July 1999 when it was moved to Kota Samarahan as Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Tun Abdul Razak (Tun Abdul Razak Teachers' Training Institute Campus).{{cite web|title=Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Tun Abdul Razak (Tun Abdul Razak Teachers' Training Institute Campus) – History|url=http://www.ipgmktar.edu.my/v2/index.php/en/2-uncategorised/2-sejarah|publisher=Tun Abdul Razak Teachers' Training Institute Campus|access-date=20 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150720125537/http://www.ipgmktar.edu.my/v2/index.php/en/2-uncategorised/2-sejarah|archive-date=20 July 2015}} The UPM campus is currently located {{convert|13|km|mi|abbr=on|0}} away from the town centre, occupying {{convert|715|ha|acre|abbr=on|0}}, which can accommodate up to 2,200 students. This branch campus currently has only one faculty, the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, consisting of five academic departments.{{cite web|title=Welcome to the Official Portal of FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SCIENCES Universiti Putra Malaysia – Footsteps |url=http://www.btu.upm.edu.my/?LANG=en&uri=/mjejaksejarahl3 |publisher=Universiti Putra Malaysia |access-date=14 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714155230/http://www.btu.upm.edu.my/?LANG=en&uri=%2Fmjejaksejarahl3 |archive-date=14 July 2015 |url-status=dead }} In 2015 UPM was ranked 41st in the UI-Greenmetric World University rankings.{{cite news|title=Bintulu rejoices as UPM campus achieves green status|url=http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=96497|access-date=14 July 2015|newspaper=Daily Express (Malaysia)|date=21 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150625141020/http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=96497|archive-date=25 June 2015}} SEDAMAI College, established in November 1999, offers courses in business, information technology, language, and engineering.{{cite web|title=SEDAMAI College – Centre of education|url=http://www.sedamai.edu.my/aboutus-introduction.aspx|publisher=SEDAMAI College|access-date=16 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140621080930/http://sedamai.edu.my/aboutus-introduction.aspx|archive-date=21 June 2014}}

There is also a technical school located {{convert|15|km|mi|abbr=on|0}} away from the town, near Tanjung Kidurong, occupying {{convert|20|ha|acre|abbr=on|0}} of land. The school was built in 1982 with a maximum capacity of 900 students. Among the courses offered are: automotive, mechanical and civil engineering, commerce, and fashion. Gulf Golden International Flying Academy (GGIFA), the first and only flying academy in Sarawak,{{cite news|title=Bintulu flying academy gaining attention from nearby countries|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/Story/?file=%2F2008%2F1%2F31%2Fnation%2F20181219&sec=nation|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150716023546/http://www.thestar.com.my/Story/?file=%2F2008%2F1%2F31%2Fnation%2F20181219&sec=nation|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 July 2015|access-date=16 July 2015|newspaper=The Star (Malaysia)|date=31 January 2008}} was closed in 2012 due to financial difficulties.{{cite news|title=Govt urged to intervene in closing of aviation school|url=http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/05/17/govt-urged-to-intervene-in-closing-of-aviation-school/|access-date=16 July 2015|newspaper=The Borneo Post|date=17 May 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150716024426/http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/05/17/govt-urged-to-intervene-in-closing-of-aviation-school/|archive-date=16 July 2015}}

The first public library in Bintulu was built in 1971 by Bintulu District Council (BDC). In 1988 the library was demolished to make way for car parks.{{cite web|title=Bintulu – Public Library |url=http://www.isarawak.com.my/v2010/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=150:bintulu-public-library-&catid=48:bintulu&Itemid=67 |website=isarawak.com.my |access-date=18 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110102002130/http://www.isarawak.com.my/v2010/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=150%3Abintulu-public-library-&catid=48%3Abintulu&Itemid=67 |archive-date=2 January 2011 |url-status=dead }} Books from the library were moved into the former BDC building. On 29 May 2000, the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) public library was built near the Bintulu Civic Centre, which is {{convert|2|km|mi|abbr=on|1}} from the town.{{cite web|last1=Yussop|first1=Mahmud|title=Old Bintulu Library|url=http://bintulub4now.blogspot.com/2013/09/old-bintulu-library.html|website=blogspot.com|date=20 September 2013|access-date=18 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150718061929/http://bintulub4now.blogspot.com/2013/09/old-bintulu-library.html|archive-date=18 July 2015}} The public library has three branches: at Kidurong, Tatau, and Sebauh.{{cite web|title=Introduction to Bintulu Development Authority Library|url=http://www.librarynet.com.my/libraries/bda_intro.html|website=librarynet.com.my|access-date=18 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141123084154/http://www.librarynet.com.my/libraries/bda_intro.html|archive-date=23 November 2014}}

File:Council Negri Monument, Bintulu.jpg

File:Tmn tumbina.jpg

Kampung Jepak (Jepak village) is a Vaie fishing village in Bintulu located near Kemena River. Among the daily activities in this village are Sago processing, fish drying, and the manufacturing of Belacan, Cencaluk (salted shrimp), Terendak (Melanau headgear), and Tutop (a type of food cover).{{cite web|title=Council Negri Memorial|url=http://sarawaktourism.com/attraction/council-negeri-memorial/|publisher=Sarawak Tourism Board|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715184012/http://sarawaktourism.com/attraction/council-negeri-memorial/|archive-date=15 July 2015}} Kuan Yin Tong temple is located at KM2 Jalan Sultan Iskandar. It has a structural design with a rock garden courtyard, man-made waterfall, and dragon fencing. Assyakirin mosque, meaning "Gratefulness to God", has a man-made waterfall, a fountain, and a landscape planted with flowers. The Borneo International Kite Festival has been held yearly since 2005 at the old Bintulu airport runway.{{cite web|title=Borneo International Kite Festival 2015|url=http://sarawaktourism.com/event/borneo-international-kite-festival/|publisher=Sarawak Tourism Board|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150716092855/http://sarawaktourism.com/event/borneo-international-kite-festival/|archive-date=16 July 2015 }} It usually lasts for four to five days in September.{{cite web|title=Borneo International Kite Festival|url=http://www.lonelyplanet.com/malaysia/malaysian-borneo-sarawak/bintulu/events/sports-outdoor/borneo-international-kite-festival|publisher=Lonely Planet|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141010173956/http://www.lonelyplanet.com/malaysia/malaysian-borneo-sarawak/bintulu/events/sports-outdoor/borneo-international-kite-festival|archive-date=10 October 2014 }}

In 1987 a clock tower and a fountain were erected at Council Negri Monument. A centenary stone that was erected in 1967 to commemorate the event is kept under the clock tower. The Bintulu Tua Pek Kong temple (near Tamu Bintulu) is believed to have been built in the 1890s to purge the town from evil spirits. The temple survived World War II, and was rebuilt after the discovery of oil and gas reserves offshore.

Similajau National Park is located {{convert|30|km|abbr=on|0}} northeast of the town. The park was gazetted in 1976, covering an area of {{convert|8996|ha|abbr=on|0}} ({{convert|89.96|km2|sqmi|abbr=on|0}} with sandy beaches, rocky headlands, jungle streams, and forests.{{cite web|title=Similajau National Park|url=http://www.sarawakforestry.com/htm/snp-np-siminajau.html|publisher=Sarawak Forestry Department|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141122063419/http://www.sarawakforestry.com/htm/snp-np-siminajau.html|archive-date=22 November 2014 }} Other national parks that can be accessed along the Miri–Bintulu road are the Lambir Hills National Park{{cite web|title=Lambir Hills National Park|url=http://www.tourism.gov.my/en/us/places/states-of-malaysia/sarawak/lambir-hills-national-park|website=tourism.gov.my|access-date=19 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150719074444/http://www.tourism.gov.my/en/us/places/states-of-malaysia/sarawak/lambir-hills-national-park|archive-date=19 July 2015}} and Niah National Park.{{cite web|title=Niah Cave |url=http://www.tourist-attractions-in-malaysia.com/niah-cave.html |website=tourist-attractions-in-Malaysia.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120723093840/http://www.tourist-attractions-in-malaysia.com/niah-cave.html |archive-date=23 July 2012 |url-status=dead |access-date=3 September 2016 }}{{cite web|title=Sarawak ~ National parks|url=http://go2travelmalaysia.com/tour_malaysia/swak_parks.htm|website=go2travelmalaysia.com|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140104232256/http://go2travelmalaysia.com/tour_malaysia/swak_parks.htm|archive-date=4 January 2014}}

Tanjung Batu beach (Temasya beach){{cite web|title=Tanjung Batu or Temasya beach Bintulu|url=http://www.bintulu.org/2010/06/28/tanjung-batu-or-temasya-beach-bintulu.php|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150719103659/http://www.bintulu.org/2010/06/28/tanjung-batu-or-temasya-beach-bintulu.php|archive-date=19 July 2015}} is located {{convert|3|km|mi|abbr=on|1}} from the town centre. Meanwhile, Taman Tumbina (Tumbina Park) is located {{convert|4|km|mi|abbr=on|1}} from the town centre. The park has a hornbill aviary, a butterfly garden, and a mini-zoo. Taman Tumbina has deer, a tiger, sunbears, as well as many different fish in their fish pond.{{Cite web|url=http://www.tumbina.com.my/attract.php|title = Welcome to Taman Tumbina}} Just down the road from Taman Tumbina there are hills where people go jungle tracking, jogging or walking.

Kidurong Tower is an observation tower located at Tanjung Kidurong. It offers a view of the Bintulu oil and gas facilities shortly after nightfall.{{cite web|title=Bintulu Tourist Attractions.. An IDEAL rest and Relax vacation destinations|url=http://www.sarawak-vacation-destinations.com/bintulu-tourist-attractions.html|website=sarawak-vacation-destinations.com|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130623043038/http://www.sarawak-vacation-destinations.com/bintulu-tourist-attractions.html#.VarzUvniu_Y|archive-date=23 June 2013}}{{cite web|title=Kidurong Tower|url=http://sarawaktourism.com/attraction/kidurong-tower/|publisher=Sarawak Tourism Board|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402211355/http://sarawaktourism.com/attraction/kidurong-tower/|archive-date=2 April 2015}} Bintulu Promenade is a {{convert|3|km|mi|adj=on|0}} walkway along the Bintulu coastline with the Kemena River mouth as its focal point. It has the observation points offering sunset views.{{cite web|title=Bintulu tourism|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/page.php?id=70&menu_id=0&sub_id=89|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140813095751/http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/page.php?id=70&menu_id=0&sub_id=89|archive-date=13 August 2014|url-status=dead}} There is also an 18-hole golf course at Bintulu.

File:Bintulu - Pasar Tamu.JPG

File:ParkCity Mall and New World Suites Hotel, Bintulu.jpg

There are several shopping malls in Bintulu: The Spring Bintulu, Bintulu Times Square, Commerce Square Bintulu, Bintulu Paragon, ParkCity Mall and City Point.{{cite web|title=Shopping|url=http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/page.php?id=55&menu_id=0&sub_id=72|publisher=Bintulu Development Authority|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130718164839/http://www.bda.gov.my/modules/web/page.php?id=55&menu_id=0&sub_id=72|archive-date=18 July 2013|url-status=dead}} The Spring Bintulu Mall is the latest attraction of list of malls in Bintulu. Furthermore, the construction of Bintulu Paragon at the old airport will boost Bintulu economy.{{cite web|title=Time Square Megamall|url=http://www.timessquaremall.com.my/about|publisher=Time Square Megamall|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130814142227/http://www.timessquaremall.com.my/about|archive-date=14 August 2013}}

Tamu Bintulu and Pasar Utama are the two main markets in the town.{{cite web|title=Pasar Tamu & Pasar Utama Bintulu|url=http://sarawaktourism.com/attraction/pasar-tamu-pasar-utama/|publisher=Sarawak Tourism Board|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715181722/http://sarawaktourism.com/attraction/pasar-tamu-pasar-utama/|archive-date=15 July 2015}} Both places have a unique cone-shaped roof that symbolises the traditional Melanau headgear named Terendak. Tamu Bintulu offers items ranging from jungle produce to native home-made specialties such as Belacan. Meanwhile, Pasar Utama houses both wet market and dry market under one roof, providing fresh vegetables, fruits, fish, and dairy products. The first floor of Pasar Utama offers a variety of fast food such as Laksa, Kolok Mee, Jawa Mee, Pulut Panggang,{{cite web|last1=Goh|first1=Kenneth|title=Grilled Glutinous Rice Package–Pulut Panggang (糯米虾米卷)|url=https://kwgls.wordpress.com/2014/03/24/grilled-glutinous-rice-packagepulut-panggang-%E7%B3%AF%E7%B1%B3%E8%99%BE%E7%B1%B3%E5%8D%B7%EF%BC%89/|website=wordpress.com|access-date=19 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150401134135/https://kwgls.wordpress.com/2014/03/24/grilled-glutinous-rice-packagepulut-panggang-%E7%B3%AF%E7%B1%B3%E8%99%BE%E7%B1%B3%E5%8D%B7%EF%BC%89/|archive-date=1 April 2015}} ais batu campur, cendol and teh tarik. The Bintulu night market is located on Kampung Dagang road. There are over 150 stalls selling a variety of items such as garments, electric goods, vegetables, fruits, food and drinks.

• Ashley Lau, professional golfer. She is the first Sarawakian woman to turn professional in Dec 2022 and the first Sarawakian to top the national women's rankings.{{cite web|title=Golf pro Bintulu lass eyes LPGA card, Olympics|author=Ting Tieng Hee|url=https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/02/28/golf-pro-bintulu-lass-eyes-lpga-card-olympics/ |date=28 February 2024|language=en|work=The Borneo Post|accessdate=29 February 2024}}

{{reflist}}

{{Commons category|Bintulu}}

{{Spoken Wikipedia|bintulu.ogg|date=13 November 2010}}

• {{Wikivoyage inline}}
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20170909142306/http://www.bintulu.org/ News related to Bintulu and Sarawak]

{{Sarawak}}

{{Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy}}

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Category:Bintulu District

Category:Towns in Sarawak

Category:Ports and harbours of Malaysia

Category:Populated places established in 1861

Category:1861 establishments in Sarawak