Cooperative thrive at Homestay Desa Cinta Kobuni
25 February 2025
KOTA KINABALU: The hustle and bustle of urban life can be quite challenging, and sometimes it is worth considering a few days' escape to a homestay. Homestay Desa Cinta Kobuni, situated just a 40-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu International Airport and a mere 15 minutes from Inanam town, offers a delightful retreat infused with warm Sabahan hospitality.
Over the years, this charming village has grown into a popular destination for both local and international tourists. It serves as an ideal gateway to experience the authentic Bornean lifestyle, with a diverse range of activities for visitors to engage in.
Guests can immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in handicraft-making workshops, traditional cooking classes, and even local sports and cultural performances that showcase the rich heritage of the area. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the region offers enticing outdoor activities, including a scenic 3.8 km jungle trek, where the beauty of the rainforest can be experienced first-hand, as well as thrilling waterfall tours that promise a refreshing escape into nature.
Moreover, nestled near the picturesque Kionsom River, Homestay Desa Cinta Kobuni is also an ideal location for leisurely activities, allowing visitors to fully embrace the tranquil surroundings and experience the beauty of Borneo’s natural environment.
Edwina Masonggim, a dedicated member of the cooperative present at the Jom@Coop event organised by the Institute Koperasi Malaysia (IKM) recently, shared that they currently boast 50 members, with 14 participating homestays.
"Since launching our operations in 2018, we took the initiative to form a cooperative, called Koperasi Desa Cinta Kobuni," she explained. "We have actively promoted our homestays, and at present, we are offering a generous 30 percent discount on our packages, until end of May."
According to Edwina, this year has been particularly favourable for their business, attracting both domestic and international tourists. "We are pleased to see an influx of visitors who are keen to experience the unique hospitality that our homestays offer."
In addition to accommodation, the cooperative sells handcrafted items made by its members. Edwina noted, "We display and sell our crafts within the homestay as well as at outside booths during events." They have also registered with Handicraft Malaysia, allowing them to exhibit and sell their products under this esteemed banner.
Edwina expressed her gratitude towards the tourism authorities, stating, "Their support has been invaluable to us. They have assisted us significantly with promotion, helping to raise our profile and attract more visitors to our homestays." Through this collaboration, they are not only enhancing the local tourism scene but also fostering a sense of community and cultural heritage.
She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Institute Koperasi Malaysia (IKM) for inviting them to showcase and sell their products during the programme. "This opportunity is invaluable, as it allows us to promote our homestay and illustrate how cooperative membership benefits our community," she remarked.
Additionally, she extended her thanks to the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Datuk Ewon Benedick, for his ongoing encouragement and support for entrepreneurs in Sabah. "He is a commendable leader who truly prioritises the welfare of the people," she added, highlighting his dedication to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial landscape in the region.
On another note, she emphasised the significance of social media promotion in today's digital age. "Platforms such as TikTok and Facebook are crucial for ensuring that businesses gain visibility," she explained. "Effective promotion through these channels can reach a wide audience, ultimately making it a lucrative endeavour for many enterprises."
By harnessing the power of social media, they continue to elevate their profile, connecting with potential customers and expanding their impact within the community.
Comments