By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, July 30: The number of natural farmers’ market stalls has nearly doubled, providing crucial economic support to both small-scale farmers and local consumers, says Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng.
“We’ve grown from 20 vendors to almost 40 or 50 stalls now. These markets bring farmers directly to consumers, which really helps during recession times,” Wee told reporters after a press conference held in conjunction with Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Ewon Benedick’s visit to inspect the implementation of the Projek Tamu Desa at Sungai Apong Market here today (July 30).
Wee explained that the direct-to-consumer model not only empowers individuals involved in small-scale farming to contribute meaningfully to the country’s socio-economic landscape, but also allows the public to access healthy produce at affordable prices.
“Those doing small little farming will be able to contribute towards the socio-economy of the country. And the consumer will be able to get healthy food with a very reasonable, affordable price,” he said.
Wee expressed gratitude to Ewon for providing grants to improve local market facilities and personally coming to the ground to witness the positive outcomes.
He emphasised that such improvements are crucial, especially as markets risk losing their appeal in modern times.
“After all the touch-ups and enhancements, we’ve managed to create new life and a new environment. This has helped revive our local jungle products and breathe life back into our markets,” he added.
Wee further urged the public to love and protect their local markets before it is too late.
“Don’t wait until there’s no market, and then only start looking for those fruit species you used to have—by then you may only find one or two types left,” he cautioned.
Hoping for continued support, Wee said he looks forward to more funding next year to further improve existing markets and strengthen community-based initiatives. — DayakDaily
