Federal govt pledges support for rural entrepreneurs in Sarawak

Zahid (front, third right) launches the 'Mini Karnival Usahawan Desa (KUD) in Kota Samarahan on Feb 2, 2024.

KUCHING, Feb 2: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi reaffirmed the Federal government’s commitment to bolstering rural entrepreneurship in Sarawak, aiming to enhance product quality and sales performance.

During the launch of the ‘Mini Karnival Usahawan Desa (KUD)’ at Kota Samarahan, Ahmad Zahid, also Minister of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), announced initiatives to empower rural entrepreneurs, particularly those in the PICO category, enabling them to switch to the MICRO category and potentially achieve annual sales of up to RM300,000.

Highlighting collaborative efforts, he detailed assistance provided by various agencies under the ministry, including MARA, RISDA, KEMAS Sarawak, and the Rural Entrepreneur Development Unit, with approved funding totaling millions for recipients in Sarawak.

“I hope to see progress and potential in the rural economy, particularly in Sarawak, through this allocation and assistance, tailored to suit the local environment,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid underscored the ministry’s strategy to promote rural industries as a catalyst for Malaysia’s new economy, encouraging foreign investment in rural areas and downstream industries.

While acknowledging the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, he urged entrepreneurs to remain vigilant and capitalize on government-offered business opportunities, emphasizing the importance of commitment amidst success. — DayakDaily