BINTULU – A dedicated platform for nurturing young business talent was launched at the Bintulu Civic Centre last Saturday.
The Youth Marketplace initiative, part of Sarawak Youth Week 2025, aims to holistically develop the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Officiating the event, Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak (MYSE), stated that the programme offers a crucial opportunity for young people to display their potential.
He clarified that it is far more than a temporary retail space, serving instead as a practical training ground.
“This is a fundamental exposure for our young entrepreneurs, particularly those from the Bintulu area,” Dr Ripin said.
He explained that participants can refine their marketing techniques, enhance communication abilities, grow their professional networks, and gain insight into local consumer demand.
The three-day event, running from 17 to 19 October, featured 30 young entrepreneurs from across Sarawak.
Their businesses spanned various sectors, including food and beverage, services, handicrafts, and local products.
Collaborative efforts from several agencies ensured inclusive participation from the B40 demographic and rural youth, aligning with the ‘No Youth Left Behind’ principle.
Dr Ripin also confirmed the launch of the Sarawak Youth Startup (SYStartUp) Cohort 2 later this year, which will involve 150 participants statewide.
Concurrently, the INNOpreneur Youth Sarawak Challenge 2025 was held, featuring innovation and product pitch competitions organised by students from Universiti Putra Malaysia’s Bintulu Campus.
