Sandakan: The Communications Ministry is poised to support women in Pulau Berhala in their journey to become e-entrepreneurs, utilizing their handmade sewing products and the island’s robust internet connectivity. Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching announced the ministry’s readiness to assist these women, who have honed their sewing skills through classes at the Kampung Pulau Berhala Women’s Community Centre, an initiative led by Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo emphasized the potential for these women to enter the e-commerce market. With the island’s reliable 4G coverage, there is an opportunity for them to market their products both locally and internationally. Teo suggested that if the initiative gains traction, platforms like Shopee, Lazada, or TikTok Shop could conduct training sessions to help the women master online sales techniques.

The handcrafted products, which include pillows, hair ribbons, and traditional Bajau attire, demonstrate significant commercial potential. Vivian Wong highlighted the success of the community centre, which has sparked interest among local women in the sewing activities. In addition to sewing classes, Wong plans to introduce lessons in cooking, traditional pastry making, and batik painting, with identified instructors ready to teach.

Housewife Rina Rameo Abdullah, 51, shared her experience, noting that the centre has been instrumental in developing her sewing skills and providing her with a source of income. Rina, who sews traditional Bajau attire called ‘Sablai’, also sells kuih in the mornings and spends her afternoons at the centre sewing festive clothes. She expressed her appreciation for the government’s support in promoting their handmade products.

During her visit to Pulau Berhala, Teo also distributed 50 food baskets, sponsored by YTL Corporation Berhad, to local residents.