RM1.1 billion given out to 66,000 Sabah entrepreneurs. Tamus more than trading place: Ewon
Published on: Wed, Jun 25, 2025
By: Lorena Binisol Text Size: Ewon launching the Tekun Madani Karnival in Tamu Inobong. PENAMPANG: Minister of Entrepreneurship and Cooperatives Development, Datuk Ewon Benedick, launched the Tekun Carnival at Tamu Ground, Kampung Inobong. Ewon expressed his appreciation to the management of Tekun Nasional, especially its Chairman Dato' Abdullah Sani bin Abdul Hamid, for agreeing to hold the mini carnival in Kampung Inobong, within his parliamentary constituency. He said community-led programmes like carnivals that are not merely economic or cultural events, rather, a reflection of the nation's aspiration to holistically develop rural communities; economically, socially, and culturally in line with the Malaysia Madani vision introduced by the Prime Minister. 'Tekun Nasional, under my agency (Kuskop), provides micro-financing to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). 'It is highly popular among small entrepreneurs seeking capital to grow their businesses. 'Since its establishment in 1998, Tekun had played a vital role in developing micro-entrepreneurs nationwide. Besides capital financing, the agency also offers business opportunities, guidance, support services, and a network for entrepreneurs,' said Ewon.
Advertisement He said as of April 2025, Tekun had disbursed RM10.31 billion to 598,969 entrepreneurs across the country. 'In Sabah alone, RM1.18 billion had been distributed to 65,939 entrepreneurs. Within the Penampang parliamentary, RM36 million has been channelled to 1,730 entrepreneurs during the same period. 'This support would help entrepreneurs grow their businesses and indirectly creates job opportunities for the surrounding community,' Ewon added. He said events like the mini carnival are excellent examples of how economic development can be integrated with the cultural identity of the people of Sabah. 'For the Kadazan Dusun and other indigenous communities, the Tamu is more than just a trading space. It is a place to meet, exchange ideas, and strengthen community bonds.' Ewon also shared that since the scheme was introduced, a total of RM7.5 million has been allocated to 1,809 entrepreneurs in Sabah, particularly small traders and vendors operating in Tamu markets. He emphasised that strengthening the ecosystem with digital payment systems, modern packaging, online market access, and cooperative support would not only boost the economy but also help preserve cultural heritage for future generations. To date, five major Tekun Madani Carnivals had been successfully held across Malaysia; namely in Sabah, Selangor, and Penang, where it generated RM5.8 million in sales. He said the success was made possible through strategic collaboration with TikTok Shop Malaysia, which expanded digital marketing opportunities for entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, Ewon also said the Tekun Madani Carnival, held for the first time in Kota Belud at Kadamaian Square Hall, Taginambur, was another successful milestone. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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