By Nancy Nais
KUCHING, Sept 3: A public community market dedicated to showcasing youth innovation and sustainable initiatives is open to all during the Sustainability and Renewable Energy Forum (SAREF 4.0) event.
Taking place at Level 1 of the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here from Sept 3 to 4, the community market highlights local products and the creativity of entrepreneurs.
The community market was launched by Deputy Minister for Utility (Sarawak Energy and Petros) and Sarawak Energy Bhd (Sarawak Energy) chairman, Dato Ibrahim Baki.
Speaking to reporters after the launch, Sarawak Energy senior vice president for corporate services Siti Aisah Adenan said the platform allows local entrepreneurs to build networks, expand opportunities, and gain wider exposure.
“One of the main reasons SAREF created this market is to make sure our local communities have the chance to participate in big events and benefit as much as possible from our projects.
“These are the communities affected by our hydro projects, so whatever we do in the future, we want them to be involved as well. At the same time, this is one of the ways to preserve our culture and tradition,” Siti Aisah explained.
There are 35 booths this year, featuring participants from places such as Baleh, Murum, Mukah, Kuching, and even associations.
In fact, Siti Aisah noted that not all of them came from Sarawak Energy’s hydro project areas.
“As long as we feel they need support from us and we can help promote their products, we will invite them to showcase their products in our events.
“Through SAREF, they will be able to meet, build networks, exchange ideas, and share experiences. This can help them grow their circle of friends and connections, even with entrepreneurs from outside their immediate area,” Siti Aisah said. — DayakDaily
