KAPIT: The COMMUNITY@SCORE programme, led by the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA) in collaboration with Press Metal Sarawak Sdn Bhd and Press Metal Bintulu Sdn Bhd, has successfully empowered 10 local entrepreneurs in Mukah and Kapit.
According to a statement by RECODA, this flagship initiative, driven by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, aims to enhance community development and align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Through these efforts, the programme provides essential resources and tools to help small business owners thrive, fostering economic empowerment across Sarawak.
“In Kapit, the event was conducted through the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA) under RECODA. Six entrepreneurs specialising in tailoring, embroidery, and bead-work crafts received vital business equipment to help them enhance their operations and expand their reach.
“Additionally, bead-making supplies were provided to the Biro Wanita of Rh Dennis Langok, ensuring the programme’s benefits extend to the wider community, particularly women in rural areas.
“This initiative not only supports individual businesses but also encourages local craft traditions to thrive,” the statement said.
In Mukah, the programme assisted five bakery entrepreneurs and one coastal fisherman, equipping them with tools essential for business growth.
“The provision of equipment allows these entrepreneurs to improve their production capabilities, increase their market reach, and ultimately contribute more significantly to the regional economy.
“This effort follows earlier symbolic mock-up cheque distributions under COMMUNITY@SCORE and Press Metal’s CSR collaborations,” it said.
COMMUNITY@SCORE directly supports the SDGs, particularly those related to economic growth, poverty alleviation, and decent work and economic opportunity.
By empowering small business owners with essential tools and resources, the programme helps increase household incomes and strengthen the economic fabric of Sarawak.
“The initiative also emphasises the importance of self-reliance and sustainable business practices, ensuring that local entrepreneurs are equipped to contribute implicitly to the region’s economic ecosystem,” it said.
Since its inception, approximately 400 individuals have been empowered through COMMUNITY@SCORE, fostering an environment of economic productivity and creating a more resilient local economy.
Moreover, the partnership between RECODA, Press Metal Sarawak Sdn Bhd, and Press Metal Bintulu Sdn Bhd highlights a unified dedication to fostering community empowerment and sustainable development.
“By combining the strengths of both organisations, the programme has had a tangible impact on local entrepreneurs, helping them improve their livelihoods and expand their businesses.
“Through this programme, these organisations have contributed meaningfully to Sarawak’s socio-economic progress, strengthening their ties with local stakeholders.
“The initiative ensures that growth and development are not only concentrated in industrial sectors but are also shared with the broader community, particularly those in rural areas,” it said.
For the record, the programmes took place on Nov 16 and Nov 29 during the Mukah District SDG Programme and at the Majlis Daerah Kapit office, respectively.
