KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) has inked a strategic partnership with DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei to implement the Artisans Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Programme, aimed at diversifying income streams for indigenous artisans in rural Sarawak through e-commerce and logistics support.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on May 23 at DHL Express Malaysia’s headquarters. SEB Power Chief Executive Officer Bunyak Lunyong represented Sarawak Energy, while DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei Managing Director Julian Neo signed on behalf of DHL.
The event was witnessed by Sarawak Energy Senior Vice President for Legal and Compliance George Chapman, General Manager for Social Impact Management Jiwari Abdullah, and DHL eCommerce Malaysia Managing Director Saurabh Kumar.
The programme aims to strengthen digital capabilities and broaden market access for indigenous artisans by leveraging platforms such as TikTok Shop, supported by DHL’s international logistics network.
Bunyak said the partnership signifies a meaningful step forward in Sarawak Energy’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship, aligning with its social investment pillars and goal of creating lasting value for rural communities.
“By combining DHL’s international logistics expertise with the reach of digital platforms like TikTok Shop, artisans gain enhanced market visibility, continuous skill development, broader access to customers, and improved business acumen.
“This will ultimately enable both social and economic empowerment,” he said.
As part of the programme, 20 artisans from the Bakun and Murum communities will participate in a week-long training session facilitated by DHL and TikTok Shop to learn e-commerce fundamentals, supply chain management, content creation, and business scaling.
Meanwhile, Julian pointed out the transformative potential of the collaboration as they believe that global trade uplifts small businesses and drives the economic mobility of communities.
“We are proud to work with Sarawak Energy to provide indigenous artisans with the support and guidance they need to succeed across borders.
“Through the programme, we can help unlock their growth potential while preserving their rich cultural heritage,” he said.
The Artisans Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Programme builds upon Sarawak Energy’s existing Handicraft Development Programme, launched in 2016 in partnership with Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, which is a longstanding initiative that supports traditional craftsmanship while promoting sustainable livelihoods.
The partnership with DHL complements Sarawak Energy’s social investment focus on Community Development and Entrepreneurship, reinforcing its commitment to uplifting rural communities through inclusive and strategic collaborations.
Over the years, Sarawak Energy has supported the Warisan Sape Telang Usan Programme, the annual Batu Tungun Blessing Ceremony, and the 2016 Guinness World Record effort for the longest woven mat by Orang Ulu women weavers.
Through this latest collaboration, Sarawak Energy continues to power communities and foster partnerships with industry leaders to drive long-term positive impact across Sarawak.
