BANGKOK: An official visit to Sook Siam @ ICONSIAM, Bangkok, on 5 February 2026 provided valuable insights into how a large-scale retail and tourism ecosystem can be leveraged to empower local entrepreneurs and promote cultural heritage on a global stage.

In a statement it said the delegation was led by Deputy Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Rosey Yunus.

ICONSIAM is recognised as an internationally positioned integrated retail destination that plays a strategic role in linking local products, arts and culture with global markets.

Developed through a holistic concept, the complex serves as a catalyst for economic growth, strengthens the tourism sector and creates wider opportunities for local entrepreneurs by placing community-based products within a premium commercial environment.

During the visit, Consultant of ICONSIAM Company Limited, Mrs Parisa Chatnilbandhu, shared insights into the values, identity and cultural uniqueness of Thailand as showcased through ICONCRAFT.

Located on the Lower Ground Floor as well as Levels 4 and 5, ICONCRAFT functions as a curated hub dedicated to community products, local entrepreneurs and craft producers.

The statement emphasised that through professional curation, these products are elevated to a premium level without losing their cultural authenticity.

The delegation was also exposed to how innovation and creativity underpin ICONSIAM’s success in penetrating global markets.

Traditional elements are blended with modern design, supported by strong cultural storytelling in branding and packaging, creative exhibition spaces comparable to contemporary art galleries, and the strategic use of technology to enhance the purchasing experience and product promotion.

ICONSIAM’s management plays an active enabling role by providing comprehensive support to entrepreneurs, including capacity building, product standardisation, branding strategies and access to high purchasing power market segments.

This approach offers an inspiring model for adaptation in Sarawak, particularly in efforts to empower women entrepreneurs through the provision of promotional and retail spaces in shopping complexes and major tourism destinations.

The visit also aimed to understand ICONSIAM’s vendor selection mechanisms, including eligibility criteria, business readiness and product suitability in line with current market demands.

Overall, the session highlighted how a structured and inclusive large-scale retail ecosystem can provide sustainable market access for micro, small and medium enterprises, bridging the gap between community producers and commercial markets while contributing to more inclusive and resilient local economic development. -UKASnews