Government welcomes efforts to develop Bumiputera entrepreneurs

KUCHING: The state government welcomes any effort by agencies to develop Bumiputera entrepreneurs, particularly the younger generations, in embracing the digital economy.

Industrial and Entrepreneur Development, Trade and Investment Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said they should particularly help out in the development of human capital.

“This is why agencies such as Mara need to play their part in producing capable human capital and entrepreneurs to develop and work in the state, particularly in the central region through the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy ( SCORE),” said Awang Tengah. He was speaking at the Mara Education Carnival at Hills Shopping Mall here yesterday.

Awang Tengah further said the state government, through Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Bumiputera Sarawak ( Tegas), had announced an allocation of RM30 million to set up incubators for business start-ups.

“The incubators will enable start-ups to explore growth opportunities offered online, who should heed the call by Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg for businesses to venture into digital economy.”

At the same time, he urged students, especially those with SPM certificates, to look into pursuing their skills certificate and diploma at Institut Kemahiran Mara ( IKM).

“The programmes offered by IKM are free as the fee is covered fully and the students even receive monthly allowance,” he said.

The carnival, which started yesterday and ends today, features around 50 booths put up by Mara and other learning institutions.

Among the activities during the two- day carnival are entrepreneur education talk, innovation exhibition, food truck festival and scrabble race.

Entrepreneur Development Assistant Minister Datuk Naroden Majais, Workforce Development and Training Assistant Minister Datu Len Talif Salleh and Mara Sarawak director Megat Zakaria Megat Ahmad were present.