MYSED innovative designs show potential for marketable products, says deputy minister

KUCHING: The innovations and designs created by the staff of the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) have the potential to be developed into valuable, marketable products, according to its Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat.

He said many of the innovations showcased during this year’s ministry Innovative and Creative Circle (ICC) Convention, could be monetised and marketable.

“The innovative and creative cycle at this year’s ICC has shown tremendous growth. We see numerous creations that can indeed be monetised.

“The designs and inventions by our staff can become products, generating financial value and income, benefiting individuals, groups, or even the ministry,” he said in his speech during the MYSED 2024 ICC Convention Award ceremony at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here, last night (Sept 6).

He pointed out that the initiative aligns with the framework of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), inspired by the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“Innovation and creativity are key elements that can drive Sarawak’s economy towards greater success,” he added.

Highlighting the potential within the ministry, he added that MYSED staff possesses numerous ideas and skills that can generate income.

“However, we may not yet fully understand how to transform these innovations into a source of income for those who design these products.

“As part of the Entrepreneur Development division, I believe these creations could become a source of revenue, and MYSED could pioneer the development of a startup hub,” he said.

He also hoped that in future the minister could establish a youthpreneur startup hub in Sarawak.

“This initiative could provide a platform for developing products and ideas, which could be upgraded and marketed more broadly, generating significant income,” Dr Ripin said.

At the event, the “Bubur Hujan” group from Dewan Suarah Baram was named the champion of the MYSED 2024 Innovative and Creative Circle (ICC) Convention for their invention of a portable trolley that simplifies the transport of chairs up staircases.

The group took home a prize of RM1,500 along with a certificate and a trophy.