KUCHING – Alongside the sporting contests at Borneo Games Kuching (BGK) 2025, local businesses are using the occasion to spotlight Sarawak-made goods and expand their reach beyond the state.
A survey conducted by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) observed that D’Vaaw Perfume drew particular attention for its unique formulation: the company replaces alcohol with gula apong (nipah palm sugar) in producing its scent.
Entrepreneur Demanic Chupong Jumput noted that the platform enables younger business owners to position their offerings on a broader stage.
“Our perfume, for example, uses gula apong as a substitute for alcohol, making it the first of its kind in the market. This proves that Sarawak has tremendous economic potential that can be further expanded with ministry support to bring local products to greater heights,” he said.
Though the display had only been open for a single day, he reported encouraging interest from visitors.
Other exhibitors opted to leverage Sarawak’s standing in spice production. In particular, medicated oils infused with Sarawak black pepper attracted attention from athletes.
Mohd Zulkipli Abdullah, one exhibitor, indicated that social media promotion had helped generate strong demand for their product, which uses a formula claimed to be 100 percent Sarawak black pepper extract.
“Even on the first day here, the response has been very encouraging. We believe the momentum will continue throughout the Games,” he commented.
Food and beverage vendors also seized the opportunity to present signature Sarawak dishes, notably Sarawak Laksa.
Zulhadi Usup explained that pricing their foods affordably was essential to persuading out-of-state athletes to sample the state’s culinary heritage.
Competition among sellers was cited as a mild deterrent to sales. Nonetheless, craft entrepreneur Norlin Daies remained upbeat.
She said footfall during the first day was limited, since no marquee events had commenced yet, but anticipated increasing attendance as the Games advance.
The BGK 2025 draws participants and spectators from Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan, offering a multi-regional stage for Sarawak’s artisan and food sectors to engage new markets.