Tamu Desa enhances rural economy

28 October 2024

By AVV

KOTA BELUD: In the picturesque and remote Lasau area of the Kadamaian Constituency, a vibrant Tamu Desa, or Rural Traditional Market, known as Tamu Lasau also known as Tamu Minunsud, thrives and serves as a vital hub for the local community.

This market caters to the diverse needs of the village, which is home to farmers, rubber tappers, and civil servants, among others.

Every Wednesday, approximately 80 vendors gather at the Tamu Desa site to showcase and sell their products.

The market features a wide array of offerings, including handicrafts, used clothing, food and beverages, agricultural produce, salted fish, fresh fish, and chicken meat, along with various general goods.

The Tamu attracts not only local residents but also visitors from across the Kota Belud district and beyond, making it a bustling centre of activity.

In addition to the weekly market, the Tamu Lasau transforms into a lively night market every evening, further enriching the community's social and economic landscape.

Jenipa Aton, the chairperson of the Traditional Tamu Desa Lasau, shared that the market has a rich history, having been established in 1985. However, it faced challenges that led to its temporary closure. The Tamu was successfully revived in 2023, reigniting interest and participation among the community.

Today, the Kadamaian State Assemblyman, Datuk Ewon Benedick, visited the Tamu Desa site, engaging with Jenipa, her team, and the vendors. Accompanied by several officials, he inspected the Tamu Desa site, demonstrating his commitment to supporting local initiatives.

During the visit, Jenipa expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Ewon, who also serves as the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperative (MEDC).

She highlighted that Ewon had not only encouraged them to participate in entrepreneurship but also helped with an allocation of RM200,000 in the construction of the Tamu.

“We are appreciative as this tamu desa helps us improve our living standards, especially the underprivileged village community, and boost our local economy. I also want to extend my thanks to everyone involved in this donation and effort,” she enthused.

Vendor Chowlin Aton, who sells vegetables and other items, remarked that the Minister’s visit was a tremendous source of encouragement, reflecting his dedication to his constituents. Another vendor, Rainih Gaus, also selling vegetables, expressed her enthusiasm for the Tamu Desa, noting that the new facilities are beneficial for their businesses. She hopes for the success of all participants in their ventures in the market.

Nourim Aton Losimi, another enthusiastic vendor, shared her joy at seeing the State Assemblyman visit their village, reinforcing the sense of community and support that the Tamu Lasau fosters among its vendors and patrons.

Overall,  Tamu Lasau stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the local community, providing a platform for economic growth and social interaction in the heart of Kadamaian. It also shows the dedication of a leader to his constituents to ensure that they prosper through rural economic activities.