Kota kinabalu: The Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP) will ensure that the construction of Tamu Desa (village markets) in Sabah and Sarawak benefits the community of vendors and small traders. Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick stated that many requests have been received from elected representatives in Sabah and Sarawak, as well as vendor and small trader associations, seeking better facilities for them.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the minister expressed hope that the implementation of Tamu Desa premises would continue next year as outlined in Budget 2025. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has considered the requests and has presented a budget allocation that can be used for the continued implementation of Tamu Desa next year.
During the tabling of the 2025 Budget, Anwar announced an allocation of RM100 million for the construction of stalls and upgrading of the infrastructure of public markets under all local authorities nationwide. This includes business spaces for small
traders at Tamu Desa in Sabah and Sarawak, as well as upgrading business facilities under Kuala Lumpur City Hall and MARA.
Ewon stated that Phase 1 of the construction and upgrading of 36 Tamu Desa projects across Sabah has been completed this month. KUSKOP has handed over the Letter of Authorisation to district officers and assistant district officers for the construction of 18 Tamu Desa projects in the state. Additionally, several elected representatives from Peninsular Malaysia have expressed interest in bringing the Tamu Desa programme to their areas to assist rural residents.