By Nancy Nais
KUCHING, April 13: The food industry in Sarawak has become one of the biggest job creators for locals here.
Citing how the Covid-19 pandemic has created more cooks or chefs, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan said the food industry is now one of the key pillars of the region’s economy.
“Gastronomy is an essential component of Sarawak’s identity. It plays a vital role in promoting multi-culturalism because the region itself is a melting pot of various ethnicities, cultures and traditions.
“One of the most important aspects of Sarawak’s diverse culture is our food. Our local cuisine is a reflection of our unique identity, and it has become an integral part of Sarawak’s tourism industry.
“So the food industry here is not only about providing sustenance but also promoting our culture and heritage,” Snowdan said at the launch of the Sarawak Gastronomy (SAGO) Incubator 2023 programme today.
He added that it is through food that Sarawak can showcase its diverse cultural heritage to the world.
“The SAGO Incubator programme is an important initiative that is contributing to the development of the food industry in Sarawak.
“Therefore, I hope to see more aspiring food entrepreneurs taking advantage of this opportunity to apply for the programme and contribute to the development of our unique food industry,” Snowdan said.
Among those who attended the launch were SAGO Incubator Organising Partner Evelyn Teo, Culinary Heritage and Arts Society Sarawak chairwoman Datin Dona Drury-Wee, Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS) chief executive officer Udin Bujang, Justin Ho from Supreme Group and Gregory Tan from Grab Malaysia. — DayakDaily
