Sarikei’s Coffee & Restaurant Industry: A Catalyst For The Economy
SARIKEI: The local economic sector, particularly the food and beverage industry in Sarikei, continues to be strengthened through ongoing government support to ensure the sustainability of traders facing current economic challenges.
Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities, who is also the Member of Parliament for Sarikei and Repok Assemblyman, Dato’ Sri Huang Tiong Sii, stated that the coffee and restaurant industry plays a vital role in generating the local economy and serves as the lifeline of small and medium-sized enterprises.
According to him, the food and beverage industry not only meets the daily needs of the people but also serves as an important platform for cultural exchange and reflects Sarikei’s local identity.
He said this while attending the 68th Anniversary Dinner of the Sarikei Coffee and Restaurant Traders Association, which brought together entrepreneurs and association members.
Commenting on current challenges, he emphasised that entrepreneurs must be more progressive by adopting technology, strengthening their branding, and enhancing service quality and food safety.
“The coffee and restaurant industry must move in step with the changing times. We cannot remain stuck in old ways, instead we must be brave enough to change and enhance the quality of our services,” he said.
Furthermore, he announced a contribution of RM50,000 to the Sarikei Coffee and Restaurant Traders Association and RM10,000 to the Federation of Sarawak Coffee and Restaurant Traders Associations in support of the industry’s development.
“It is hoped that this contribution will help strengthen the association and enhance the capabilities of its members in their services,” he remarked.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuously supporting local entrepreneurs to ensure they remain competitive, while calling for cooperation from all parties, regardless of race, to advance the economies of Sarikei and Meradong. –UKASnews
