By Mohd Khairy Abdullah @ DG Henry
TELUPID (Sabah, Malaysia), Sept 21, 2025 – The development of the Telupid Village Market is hailed as a crucial driver of rural economic transformation, in line with the MADANI Government’s commitment to strengthening a sustainable and competitive rural entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Datuk Ewon Benedick, said the initiative is part of the Village Market Premises Development Program in Sabah and Sarawak, introduced in 2024 to enhance economic infrastructure and uplift the livelihood of rural communities.
“Village markets are more than just trading spaces. They serve as economic platforms connecting small entrepreneurs to broader markets, creating job opportunities, and generating income cycles that sustain village economies,” he said when officiating the Telupid Village Market today.
According to Ewon, Phase 1 in 2024 saw the completion of 36 projects in Sabah and 13 in Sarawak at a cost of RM8.69 million, directly benefiting 1,958 traders. Meanwhile, Phase 2 involved 25 projects in Sabah worth RM4.84 million and 26 in Sarawak worth RM5.15 million, reaching 1,964 traders.
“The success of these phases provides a strong foundation for the continuation of Phase 3 in 2025, with an allocation of RM10 million, including a project in Telupid. This is a strategic investment that is expected to generate multiplier effects for local economic activities,” he stressed.
He added that village markets play a dual role as the heartbeat of rural socio-economic development and as cultural hubs that reflect the identity of local communities, while also boosting domestic tourism potential.
“Previously, many village markets were in poor condition and lacked basic facilities. Through this program, we are creating more modern, comfortable, and competitive trading spaces that increase productivity, strengthen consumer confidence, and ensure the sustainability of local economies,” Ewon explained.
At the same time, he urged the Telupid Entrepreneurs and Traders Association to play a more strategic role in managing the operations of the market, ensuring that the facilities provided deliver maximum and long-term benefits.
“Village markets must be seen as rural growth centres driven by the people themselves. Their success will determine how effectively rural communities can break free from poverty traps and transition towards more resilient, future-ready economies,” he concluded.
