Tamu Desa Development Programme Benefits Nearly 4,000 Traders

TELUPID, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- The Premises Development (Tamu Desa) programme in Sabah and Sarawak has benefited 3,922 traders, allowing them to conduct business in more comfortable surroundings, said Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick.

He said that previously, the traders, many of whom are women, had to work in a hot environment under a canopy, adding that with the upgraded market facilities, they can now operate in a more comfortable and organised setting.  

“Previously, many Tamu Desa premises were in poor condition or lacked basic infrastructure and public utilities, making it uncomfortable for both traders and the public.

“Tamu Desa has the potential to boost socio-economic development and enhance the quality of life in rural communities,” he said at the launch of Tamu Desa Pekan Telupid today.

He said that last year, 100 Tamu Desa development projects were implemented, with nearly RM19 million in funding.

During the first phase of the initiative last year, 49 projects were carried out in Sabah and Sarawak for RM8.69 million, while the second phase covered 51 projects with a total cost of RM9.9 million.

“The success of this programme has encouraged the MADANI Government to continue its implementation in Sabah in 2025, with an allocation of RM10 million, including a site in the Telupid district,” he said.

Ewon expressed confidence that the government will continue prioritising Tamu Desa projects in Budget 2026, stressing that the initiative will help enhance the socio-economic status of Tamu Desa traders.

-- BERNAMA