Tamu Desa and MEDC’s respond to people’s issue

22 April 2024

By Nabalu News Journalist

KIULU: The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO), under the leadership of its President Datuk Ewon Benedick, has implemented several initiatives to assist entrepreneurs.

One of these initiatives is the allocation of funds to carry out Tamu Desa in the rural areas. Tamu Desa is a cultural event where local entrepreneurs can showcase and sell their products.

Ewon said this is further highlighted with the allocation for Tamu Desa will be presented at the upcoming UPKO Harvest Festival in Kuala Penyu on the 11th and 12th of this month. The purpose of this announcement is to ensure that the UPKO initiative reaches the district offices, so that the public is aware of UPKO's response and approach.

He was speaking during the pada UPKO Convention Zone B (Tuaran and Sepanggar), at the Kiulu Community Hall, here, yesterday.

He stated that UPKO’s initiative aims to encourage the formation of cooperatives to manage the Tamu Desa and other similar initiatives. For example, if there is a need for a Tamu Desa in a specific town, even if it involves a small number of individuals (e.g. 20-30 people), UPKO encourages them to establish a cooperative.

“This way, UPKO can provide guidance and support, and the allocation of funds can be channeled through the Ministry of Cooperatives, ensuring proper control and utilisation of resources,” he said.

UPKO has representatives in various government agencies within the Ministry. To maximize their impact, UPKO has adopted a new approach where each division of UPKO collaborates with a cooperative or association. This not only enables UPKO to address the issues faced by the people, but also facilitates efficient problem-solving through the involvement of cooperatives and associations.

He mentioned a recent visited the Kinabalu Lestari Cooperative, which was established by UPKO members. During the visit, an initial allocation of RM 100,000 was provided, along with subsequent assistance through revolving funds. This visit demonstrates UPKO's commitment to being a catalyst in resolving the issues faced by the people.

He reiterated that UPKO is dedicated to assisting entrepreneurs and resolving the problems faced by the people.

Through initiatives like Tamu Desa, the formation of cooperatives, collaboration with government agencies, and direct support to cooperatives, UPKO strives to be a proactive and effective advocate for the people.