BAU: Locals in Bau and Tasik Biru have been urged to venture into producing mechanised and value-added products to tap into the growing tourism and development potential in the area.
Tasik Biru state assemblyman, Datuk Henry Jinep, said the absence of local merchandise reflects a missed economic opportunity, especially with the planned Tasik Biru resort city expected to attract more domestic and international visitors in the coming years.
He said there are currently no locally branded merchandise products available in Bau although it is now receiving so many foreign and local visitors compared to 10 years ago.
“At the moment, we do not have local merchandise that truly represents Bau.
“When tourists come, they want something to bring home that reflects the identity, culture and uniqueness of the place,” he said at the closing of ‘She Creates, She Sustains’ programme organised Pungu Borneo for women at Tasik Hall, Tasik Biru, here today.
Jinep also stressed that relying solely on small-scale and traditional production methods might make it difficult for locals to meet market demand, particularly as tourism activities expand.
He therefore encouraged local women groups and local entrepreneurs to explore mechanised production to ensure consistency, quality and sustainability.
“With mechanised processes, products can be produced in larger quantities with better quality control. This will allow local businesses to even supply hotels, resorts and retail outlets in Bau and Tasik Biru now and in the near future,” he said.
He added that potential merchandise could include food products, souvenirs, handicrafts and lifestyle items that reflect Bau’s heritage and natural attractions, provided they are properly branded and packaged.
Jinep said he as well as various government agencies and development bodies are ready to support locals through skills training, technical assistance, entrepreneurship programmes and funding facilities to help them modernise their operations.
He emphasised that local participation is crucial to ensure that economic benefits from development and tourism remain within the community.
“This is an opportunity for our people to move forward, create jobs and build local brands that can grow together with Bau and Tasik Biru,” he said.
Lucille Anak Awen Jon, the founder of Pungu Borneo, was also present.
