SERIAN: The Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Entrepreneur Development is encouraging youth to apply for funding aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, particularly the Sarawak Youth Creative Industry Fund (SYCIF).
Its Deputy Minister Dr. Ripin Lamat said that the fund provides an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs involved in creative industries such as handicrafts, traditional costumes, music, design, and more.
“The grant does not need to be repaid, so everyone can apply,” he said during the Youth Entrepreneur Setup (YES) @ Serian 2023 programme held at a hotel yesterday.
Moreover, Dr. Ripin expressed his enthusiasm for the recently passed Sarawak Craft Council Bill 2023 in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
He encouraged entrepreneurs venturing into the creative industry to seize this opportunity.
In addition to promoting the creative industry, Dr. Ripin pointed out that youth, being tech-savvy, have an advantage in adapting technology as a platform for trade.
“For instance, young entrepreneurs can market local products on social media platforms like TikTok to generate income,” he suggested.
“Serian is well-known for durian. By selling the fruit online, entrepreneurs can reach customers beyond their local area, such as Kuching. These small opportunities can yield significant income.”
Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus, who was also present at the event, recognised entrepreneurship as a key driver of local socio-economic development and job creation.
“Entrepreneurial activities in Serian should be further encouraged because Serian serves as a transit town for those traveling through the Pan Borneo Highway,” he explained.
The programme was also attended by Kedup assemblyman Martin Ben and Tebedu assemblyman Dr. Simon Sinang. During the event, a town hall session was conducted to listen to the aspirations of the youth. Dr. Ripin and the attending assemblymen actively sought input from the participants to better assist the present entrepreneurs.
