BARIO: The Bario Entrepreneur Incubation and Guidance Centre (PIBU) is expected to serve as a catalyst for rural economic development driven by innovation and entrepreneurship.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala said the establishment of PIBU marks an important step in empowering rural communities, in line with the state government’s vision under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Today marks a historic moment for the Bario community, as the establishment of PIBU represents another major milestone in strengthening the rural economy, particularly in this highland area,” he said when officiating at the PIBU Bario and launching the Creative Thinking and Innovation Cultivation Course for Contractors and Suppliers at the Bario Community Hall recently.
Gerawat, who is also Mulu assemblyman, explained that PIBU will serve as an entrepreneurial hub to assist local entrepreneurs in using a business address, obtaining guidance services, and connecting with government and private agencies.
“We want to ensure that local communities, especially the youth, are able to explore new opportunities in the modern economy such as innovative entrepreneurship, contracting, e-commerce, and digital services,” he added.
He also commended SEDC Sarawak and the State Financial Secretary’s Office for organising the course, describing it as timely in nurturing innovative, competitive, and professional contractors and suppliers.
“With the knowledge and skills gained through this course, contractors and suppliers will be able to enhance their performance and the quality of project implementation,” he said.
Gerawat emphasised that the state government is actively developing a community-based economy and expressed hope that PIBU Bario would become a model for prosperous and resilient rural settlements.
“The establishment of PIBU Bario will act as a catalyst for increasing household income, creating new job opportunities, and producing local entrepreneurs capable of promoting the Bario brand at the national and international levels,” he said.
