KUCHING: The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) allocated over RM8 million for the Tamu Desa project in Sarawak under Phases One and Two, marking another milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to empower local entrepreneurs.
The announcement was highlighted during the launch of Tamu Desa Sukma Ria, officiated by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Coordinator for the Regional Development Agency, Kuching North City Hall and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi.
He said the initiative reflected the government’s continued commitment to strengthening grassroots economic activities and providing small traders with better business infrastructure through KUSKOP’s Premises Development Project (Tamu Desa).
“This project not only offered traders a better and more comfortable place to do business but also helped create new income opportunities and enhanced the local economy,” he said during the event today.
For Phase One, RM1.995 million was allocated for 13 sites across Sarawak, while Phase Two involved nearly RM7 million, bringing the total to over RM8 million for the state.
Nationwide, a total of RM29 million was set aside for 144 Tamu Desa premises in Sabah and Sarawak, benefitting thousands of small traders and local entrepreneurs.
Dr Abdul Rahman added that the project also received strong support from the Sarawak State Government and local authorities, including Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), which coordinated and implemented the project on the ground.
The Tamu Desa Sukma Ria project, funded under KUSKOP’s Phase 2 (2024) allocation, began on April 2, 2025, was completed on August 1, 2025, and handed over to DBKU on September 1, 2025.
The market features 20 active stalls, including four beverage kiosks and 16 food stalls, offering a variety of affordable local dishes.
It also includes three stainless steel double sinks with an HDPE solid pipe system, louvers, and a hawker centre signboard.
Dr Abdul Rahman said these improvements demonstrated KUSKOP’s ongoing efforts to create a conducive business environment and nurture an entrepreneurial culture at the community level.
He also praised DBKU for upgrading the upper floor of the building from Sukma Ria Hawker Centre to Food Society Sukma Ria, featuring a modern, sports-themed concept to promote an active and healthy lifestyle.
“Food Society Sukma Ria is not just a dining place but a symbol of healthy living and a new gastronomic icon for Kuching City, celebrating the uniqueness of local flavours and enhancing Kuching’s reputation as the City of Gastronomy,” he said.
The renovation works, costing nearly RM1.9 million, included roof repairs, stall and dining area upgrades, electrical system improvements and interior decoration.
