Kota Belud: The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) will construct more ‘tamu desa’ (rural traditional markets) in Sabah and Sarawak this year, aiming to enhance rural market facilities and empower entrepreneurs in both states. Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick announced that the MADANI Government, through KUSKOP, has allocated RM20 million for the Tamu Desa Development Project this year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the allocation includes an additional RM10 million announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the MADANI Rakyat Programme in Tawau last month. Last year, 98 tamu desa were successfully built and upgraded across Sabah and Sarawak. Minister Ewon expressed hope that with the RM20 million allocation, the same number or more could be constructed this year. He made these remarks after officiating the Kampung Pinasang Tamu Darat Kaamatan Festival in Kota Belud and launching the village’s tamu desa, which was completed at a cost of RM250,000.
Ewon mentioned that 14 tamu desa were constructed in the Kota Belud area as part of the 98 premises completed across Sabah and Sarawak last year. Village leaders informed him that these markets greatly benefit residents, especially mothers and small entrepreneurs who conduct business weekly. The markets provide a comfortable space for selling and can be used for various community activities on other days.
He highlighted that the requirements for tamu desa development vary based on location and scope of work as determined by the District Office. This could involve new construction or upgrading, with costs ranging from RM100,000 to RM300,000. As of May, applications for new construction or upgrading of tamu desa premises in Sabah had reached RM40 million, including carry-over applications from last year that could not be implemented. This amount does not yet include applications from Sarawak.
Despite budget constraints, Ewon stressed the importance of continuing the initiatives started last year. He expressed confidence that the programme will be a key input of the ministry in the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026-2030). The tamu desa initiative is part of the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of rural Sabah and Sarawak, aligning with the nation’s inclusive development agenda.