Ewon Ignites Rural Economy: Four New “Tamu Desa” Premises Worth RM790,550 Completed in Penampang

PENAMPANG, 6 August 2025 – The winds of rural transformation are blowing strong in Penampang as four newly constructed and upgraded Tamu Desa premises, amounting to a total investment of RM790,550, have been successfully completed under the proactive initiative of the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP), led by Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick.

The projects include the construction of new Tamu Desa facilities in Kg. Inobong, Kg. Babagon, and Kg. Togudon, as well as the upgrading of the existing market in Kg. Mahandoi. More than just buildings of bricks and mortar, these premises symbolize a new chapter of economic revival for rural communities.

“This isn’t just about infrastructure. These are monuments to rural economic resilience and a tribute to the hardworking local entrepreneurs,” said Ewon, speaking during the Official Opening of the New Tamu Desa Building in Kg. Togudon, today.

With improved, orderly, and weatherproof facilities, Ewon believes rural entrepreneurs will now enjoy a more conducive business environment, while shoppers benefit from a safer, more comfortable experience.

Even more promising, the minister encouraged the use of these tamu markets not just on the usual Saturday market day, but daily—turning what was once a weekly event into a daily economic engine for the village.

“I urge all agricultural entrepreneurs to operate daily. Let’s bring this market to life—morning to evening, Monday to Sunday. This is where the village’s new economy can truly bloom,” he declared with passion.

During the same event, Ewon also presented a registration certificate to Koperasi Desa Togudon Berhad, a newly formed cooperative aimed at driving collective and sustainable economic growth in the village.

“We don’t want the village to be just a trade post. We want it to become an ecosystem—where the cooperative leads, the tamu becomes the heart, and rural entrepreneurs are its backbone,” said Ewon, who is also the Member of Parliament for Penampang.

This initiative is part of a broader KUSKOP agenda across Sabah and Sarawak. As of last year, a total of 98 Tamu Desa premises have been built, and according to Ewon, more are on the way, proving the government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive rural development.

Tamu Desa is not just a marketplace for selling local produce. It is a cultural landmark, a heartbeat of the rural economy, and a gathering place for community spirit. With these newly upgraded and modern facilities, KUSKOP sends a clear message:
The rural heartland is not to be left behind — it is to be empowered.