Kuching: The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) has allocated RM1 million for the implementation of five projects comprising new construction and upgrades for tamu desa (rural markets) in the Mas Gading parliamentary constituency, in an effort to expand business opportunities and boost economic activity among the rural communities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the five projects have been identified based on local needs: Pasar Tamu Tembawang Sauh, Kampung Grogo sales stalls, Pasar Tani Jagoi, Pasar Tani Duyoh and Pasar Tani Stenggang. The announcement was made by the minister, Steven Sim Chee Keong, during his visit to the Tamu Desa Development Project in Kampung Grogo, Bau. This initiative is part of the government's efforts to strengthen the micro-entrepreneurship ecosystem and enhance economic opportunities for rural communities.

"In order to ensure that the project can be implemented more efficiently and systematically while adhering to the specified requirements, UDA Holdings Berhad has been appointed as the executing agency responsible for the planning, implementation and monitoring aspects of the project," according to the statement.

KUSKOP further stated that the implementation of the project in Mas Gading is part of the ministry's commitment to strengthening the micro-entrepreneurship ecosystem in the rural and suburban areas of Sarawak. It was also noted that for the period from 2024 to August 31, 2026, a total of 61 Tamu Desa projects involving an overall allocation of RM13 million have been implemented in Sarawak.