PENAMPANG: Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said the community eco-tourism site in Kampung Kibambangan, here, once a popular tourist attraction, has strong potential for revival through strategic collaboration with local cooperatives.
He said reactivating the area could be strengthened by involving cooperatives in managing and developing the existing eco-tourism and camping facilities.
“As part of efforts to revitalise economic activities here, I have approved an allocation of RM250,000 under the Ministry’s Tamu Desa premises development programme to construct an open-concept community hall and related facilities,” he said during his visit to the Kg Kibambangan eco-tourism and camp site, here, Sunday.
The Penampang MP commended the Persatuan Seni Budaya Nulu Penampang for continuing to organise cultural events and concerts in the area.
He urged the local community, particularly youths and cooperatives, to play an active role in sustainably managing the site.
During the visit, he also toured Jack Masa’s studio and guitar workshop. Jack is a young entrepreneur and Sabah music artist currently expanding his business with a new studio in Pekan Donggongon.
“I have offered him (Jack) a development grant under the BEEP Plus Programme (Sabah and Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneur Grant) by SME Corp to support his venture.
“As Penampang MP, I have also allocated RM20, 000 to the Persatuan Seni Budaya Nulu Penampang led by Jack for youth programmes, with an additional equal allocation approved this year,” he added.
Ewon encouraged more young entrepreneurs to engage with the Ministry’s agencies including SME Corp, Bank Rakyat and Tekun Nasional to explore tailored support services.
“With such backing, Jack can inspire other Sabah young entrepreneurs,” he said.
Ewon also visited Matelda’s homestay in Kg Putaton, operational since 2007 and an active member of the Persatuan Homestay Penampang.
Pledging assistance for repairs, Ewon cited Matelda’s success in fish farming and hydroponics through government grants as proof of the Madani Government’s effective rural entrepreneurship support.
“Last year’s allocation channelled through the Pertubuhan Peladang Kawasan Penampang enabled her to supply hydroponic vegetables and fish to members. I am pleased these funds added value to her homestay business,” he said.
