Tawau to host PMR 2025 Sabah, Empowering Communities through Entrepreneurship
Published on: Thu, May 08, 2025 Text Size: TAWAU: Tawau, Sabah will host the Program MADANI Rakyat (PMR) 2025 Sabah, a people-centred initiative organised by the Prime Minister's Department through the Performance Acceleration and Coordination Unit (PACU), with the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) as the lead ministry, from 9 to 11 May 2025. PMR 2025 Sabah is a national movement aimed at empowering the people by reducing poverty through entrepreneurship. The programme is anchored on the values of the Malaysia MADANI framework—sustainability, respect, innovation, well-being, and trust. This initiative will bring together federal ministries, state agencies, and grassroots entrepreneurs to deliver services and opportunities directly to the community. The programme aims to bridge the gap between the public service and the people, while promoting transparency, inclusivity, and economic empowerment. Sabah was chosen to launch the 2025 edition in recognition of its distinctive challenges and immense potential to drive community-based progress. Through PMR, the government offers a platform for the public to interact with policymakers, share feedback, and voice concerns, thereby enabling better service delivery in line with the Public Service Reform Agenda. The theme, 'Ending Poverty Through Entrepreneurship,' underpins PMR 2025 Sabah, reflecting the government's commitment to addressing hardcore poverty sustainably by empowering citizens. According to YB Datuk Ewon Benedick, Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, the event marks a significant milestone for both Sabah and the nation. 'PMR 2025 Sabah represents the government's unwavering commitment to reduce poverty by empowering the people through entrepreneurship. This is about creating dignified and resilient livelihoods, not dependency,' he said. The three-day event, held at Dataran Majlis Perbandaran Tawau, will feature over 500 activities. Visitors can look forward to 36 government agency booths, 204 public service counters, and 158 entrepreneur stalls under the Jualan MADANI initiative. A vibrant career carnival will also feature 15 employers offering more than 600 job opportunities. The most important aspect of Jualan MADANI is affordability, with essential items such as rice, chicken, eggs, and cooking oil will be sold at discounts of up to 30%. This initiative not only eases the cost of living but also stimulates the growth of local entrepreneurs, especially those involved in the One District One Industry (SDSI) initiative. A total of 120 SDSI entrepreneurs and 24 food vendors will showcase the rich cultural and culinary diversity of Sabah. For business owners, PMR 2025 Sabah offers a golden opportunity to network, collaborate, and grow. The PADANIAGA business matching session will connect entrepreneurs with investors and distributors, while the BIAYA Usahawan counters will offer guidance on micro-financing options from KUSKOP's key agencies such as TEKUN Nasional, SME Corp, and Bank Rakyat. Beyond business and services, the programme also seeks to enhance public awareness and civic responsibility. The Forum Perdana Ehwal Islam will explore the theme 'Formula of the Afterlife Entrepreneur,' blending ethical entrepreneurship with spiritual values. By leveraging Sabah's natural and cultural assets, particularly in agriculture, fisheries, handicrafts, and ecotourism, the exhibition aims to transform local knowledge into global business opportunities and build sustainable community economies. Adding to the festive atmosphere will be various cultural and entertainment events. On 10 May, a star-studded concert will feature top Malaysian artists including Awie, Stacy, Akim, Felix Agus, and TEKUN Band. Family-friendly activities such as karaoke competitions, colouring contests, lucky draws, and STEM and AI exhibitions will further enrich the experience. These engaging events not only entertain but also foster community unity and inclusivity. Satellite programmes will run from 7 to 11 May in surrounding areas. In Kampung Mentadak Baru on Sebatik Island, a community-based CSR project will upgrade basic facilities such as a futsal court, library, and community hall, with solar lighting installed through a collaboration between UDA Holdings, Bank Rakyat, and local residents. On 8 and 9 May, the Halal Success Programme at Tawau Community College jointly organised by KUSKOP, Pernas, and Maxis will guide over 150 MSME entrepreneurs on obtaining halal certification and entering international markets. Meanwhile, at Hotel Royale Borneo, the JOM@COOP programme will showcase the cooperative business model's role in community development and poverty reduction. IKMa Sabah Zone (Tawau Branch) will hold a Knowledge Dialogue Programme in conjunction with the Ground Outreach Programme Towards Empowering Cooperatives 2025, themed 'Ending Poverty Through the Cooperative Business Model.' Another CSR initiative will take place on 11 May at PPR Batu 8, one of Tawau's most underserved communities, where sports facilities will be upgraded and solar lighting installed, benefiting more than 4,500 residents. What sets PMR apart is its focus on two-way engagement, empowering citizens to be active contributors in governance. PMR provides a platform for individuals to voice opinions, share ideas, and offer direct feedback to government representatives. This culture of open dialogue fosters a more responsive and inclusive administrative model that genuinely reflects the people's aspirations and needs. At its core, PMR 2025 Sabah aims to broaden access for all including jobseekers, students, entrepreneurs, and families. The programme encompasses a wide array of initiatives, including job opportunities, business development support, legal aid, digital skills training, and mental health services all thoughtfully designed to uplift and empower communities. During the event, the Prime Minister is scheduled to present the Sabah Successful Entrepreneur Award to outstanding B40 entrepreneurs who have thrived with support from KUSKOP and partner agencies. PMR 2025 Sabah represents a major step forward in building a more just and resilient Malaysia. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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