SIMANGGANG – Calls have been made for the Sri Aman Ramadan Fiesta Bazaar to be held annually, with local leaders highlighting its potential to strengthen the district’s identity as a hub for community-driven entrepreneurship.
During a recent walkabout at the bazaar site opposite the Tabung Haji Sri Aman Building, Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, said the event had become an important platform for traders and residents to come together during the fasting month.
He noted that the bazaar not only supports small-scale entrepreneurs but also nurtures unity among the multicultural population of Sri Aman. According to him, the lively atmosphere and the wide range of food offerings reflect the community’s shared commitment to celebrating Ramadan.
“The friendly interaction between me and the traders, including visitors at this bazaar, thus reflects the government’s support for the community’s efforts in enlivening the Ramadan celebration in Bandar Simanggang.
“The bazaar atmosphere also strengthens the spirit of togetherness among the residents, with visitors being able to enjoy the variety of traditional and modern foods on offer.
“Therefore, it is hoped that this Ramadan Fiesta Bazaar will continue to be an annual event that is highly anticipated and thus further strengthens Sri Aman’s identity as a centre for active community activities throughout this Ramadan,” he said.
His visit included stops at several stalls, where he spoke with traders and sampled various dishes. As the Simanggang State Assemblyman, he emphasised that such initiatives help broaden market exposure for local products, especially during festive seasons when foot traffic is high.
The bazaar, jointly organised by the Sri Aman-Betong Malay Brotherhood Association, the Simanggang Entrepreneurs Committee and Resipi Teratak Sendirian Berhad, features a total of 92 trading lots. These include 37 food stalls, 20 confectionery booths, 14 roast vendors, 10 drink stalls, 10 product stalls and one perfume outlet.
The event has drawn strong participation from local entrepreneurs, many of whom rely on seasonal bazaars to supplement their income. Similar bazaars across Malaysia have historically boosted micro-businesses, especially during Ramadan when demand for ready-to-eat meals increases.
Council members from the Sri Aman District Council (MDSA) were also present during the minister’s visit, signalling continued local government support for community-based economic activities.
Running concurrently at the same location is the Ramadan Bazaar Rahmah Sri Aman 2026, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN). The Rahmah initiative aims to offer affordable food options to ease the financial burden on families during the fasting month.
Datuk Francis expressed confidence that with consistent organisation and community involvement, the Sri Aman Ramadan Fiesta Bazaar could evolve into a signature annual attraction, drawing visitors from neighbouring districts and contributing to the region’s economic vibrancy.
He added that the bazaar’s success demonstrates the value of grassroots initiatives in strengthening social ties and promoting local entrepreneurship, especially in smaller towns like Sri Aman, where community events play a central role in social life.
