KUCHING: The SAGO Incubator 2026 programme is seen as an important platform in empowering micro and small entrepreneurs in Sarawak, especially in the food and beverage sector, thus supporting the state's inclusive economic development.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat said micro, small and medium enterprises are the backbone of the economy that play a major role in creating job opportunities and boosting the local economy.
According to him, more than 97 percent of businesses in Sarawak consist of MSMEs with the majority operating in the service sector including the food and beverage business.
"Small businesses are often the starting point for innovation. Many successful companies today started from small kitchens, small stalls or small ideas that dare to be realised," he said at the SAGO Incubator 2026 Call for Application press conference on Monday.
He added that programmes like SAGO Incubator are very significant because they not only provide training to entrepreneurs, but also offer guidance, monitoring and access to the real market.
“When entrepreneurs are given the right support system, their chances of success will increase significantly,” he explained.
He added that the approach is in line with the aspirations of the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) which emphasises the empowerment of local talent, strengthening entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth throughout Sarawak.
Meanwhile, he also encouraged individuals interested in building a food business to seize the opportunity to participate in the SAGO Incubator 2026 programme.
Also present at the press conference were SAGO Group Sdn Bhd Director Arif Abdul Rahman, Sarawak Heritage and Culinary Arts Association Representative Chef Laura Bara Sim and iCube Innovation Sdn Bhd Founder Dato Patrick Liew. - UKASnews
