MBKS eyes permanent Kuching Natural Farmers’ Market

KUCHING: The Kuching Natural Farmers’ Market (KNFM) could become a model for a more permanent farmers’ market in the city, with Kuching South City Council (MBKS) exploring the possibility of providing a dedicated space for local farmers and producers in the future.

MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said the growing popularity of the market demonstrated the importance of creating a proper platform for Sarawak-grown produce, while supporting small-scale farmers and encouraging healthier food choices.

“We want all the products in Sarawak to be maintained. We want everything that is grown in Sarawak to continue to grow. That is the duty of our Natural Farmers Market,” he said.

Speaking at the market’s fourth anniversary celebration, Wee said the initiative had grown from a small gathering of about 20 participants to more than 100 members and 171 sellers.

He said the market was more than a place to buy and sell produce, describing it as a community platform that brought together farmers, producers and consumers while promoting healthy living.

“What you can see is not just a market. To me, it is a whole movement. People really care about their health, and these are the people who have been contributing towards our healthy city,” he said.

He stressed that preserving Sarawak’s agricultural diversity was another reason for continued support for the market, noting that the state was home to a wide variety of locally grown produce.

“We have all types of species in Sarawak, whether bananas, pineapples or other local produce. They could disappear if we do not provide a proper platform for people to display and sell these local products,” he said.

He added that MBKS would continue supporting markets as they played an important role in connecting producers with consumers and keeping locally grown products within the community.

Wee cited the existing KNFM could serve as a model for future initiatives, including the possibility of establishing a more permanent venue.

“When we are ready, we can plan for an actual natural farmers market,” he said.

He commended the farmers, sellers and organisers for sustaining the market and assured them of the council’s continued support.

“From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank every one of you. Your effort works, your team works. Continue your good work. The council will be there to support all of you,” he said.