5 Mas Gading rural markets get RM1 mln boost to spur local economic activity

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By DayakDaily Team

BAU, Sept 16: Five rural markets in the Mas Gading parliamentary constituency are set for a RM1 million redevelopment push, covering two new construction projects and three upgrading works to expand business opportunities and spur economic activity in the area.

The projects, identified based on local needs, comprise the construction of the new Tembawang Sauh Rural Market and sales stalls at Kampung Grogo, as well as upgrading works at the Jagoi, Duyoh and Stenggang Farmers’ Markets.

Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) Steven Sim Chee Keong said the allocation was aimed at expanding business opportunities and stimulating economic activities, particularly in rural areas.

“To ensure the projects could be implemented more efficiently and systematically while complying with the stipulated specifications, UDA Holdings Berhad had been appointed as the Implementing Agency responsible for the planning, implementation and monitoring of the projects,” he said during a visit to the Rural Market Development Project at Kampung Grogo, Bau, according to a media release today.

From 2024 to Aug 31, 2026, a total of 61 rural market projects had been implemented in Sarawak involving a total allocation of RM13 million.

For 2026 alone, KUSKOP is implementing 22 rural market projects throughout Sarawak, comprising one project under the First Rolling Plan (RP1) 2026 of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13) and 21 other projects.

With the additional RM1 million allocation for the five Mas Gading projects, KUSKOP’s overall commitment to rural market projects in Sarawak from 2024 to 2026 has increased to RM14 million, the release said.

The implementation of the projects involves strategic collaboration between KUSKOP, the Sarawak Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED), and the Sarawak Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government (MPHLG) through local authorities (PBT).

Before implementation begins, KUSKOP will review and finalise several key aspects, including verification of land ownership status, development scope, and the preparation and review of the Bill of Quantities (BQ).

The review is necessary to ensure each project meets the needs of the local community and can be completed within the stipulated timeframe and cost.

The approach is aimed at ensuring rural entrepreneurship infrastructure not only provides spaces for businesses but also serves as a catalyst for local economic growth and increased income opportunities.

The initiative also reflects the government’s continued efforts to ensure inclusive entrepreneurship development benefits communities nationwide, including rural communities in Sarawak.

With better business facilities, the rural markets are expected to serve not only as places for transactions but also as catalysts for local economic activity, increasing traders’ incomes and strengthening the economic chain within rural communities.

Also present during the visit were Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports and Mas Gading MP Mordi Bimol, and Bandar Kuching MP and Political Secretary to the KUSKOP Minister Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen. — DayakDaily

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