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48 weekly markets upgraded in Sabah to boost rural economy, food security
Arthur (second from left) after officiating the Pasar Tamu at Rancangan Belia Tiulon in Sook.
SOOK (June 22): A total of 48 pasar tamu (weekly markets) across Sabah have been successfully upgraded or newly constructed under a Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) initiative, aimed at strengthening rural economic activity and supporting the National Food Security Policy.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, said the projects — funded with an allocation of RM15.6 million from the Federal Government — are now fully completed.
Speaking to the media after officiating the upgraded Pasar Tamu at Rancangan Belia Tiulon in Sook, Arthur noted the transformation these projects brought to rural trading facilities.
'Previously, traders here used only wooden tables and canvas sheets to shield themselves from the sun and rain. With the upgraded infrastructure, I see great potential for further development,' he said.
The Pasar Tamu at Rancangan Belia Sook, established in 2021 with just eight traders, has since expanded to include 40 regular vendors. The market upgrade, which began on 25 September 2024, was completed on 2 April 2025.
Arthur, who is also the Member of Parliament for Pensiangan, said the upgrades reflect the government's commitment to empowering rural agro-entrepreneurs by providing more comfortable and conducive business environments.
'These projects were carried out in phases, prioritising markets most in need of repair or those no longer suitable for use. The upgraded markets are expected to boost the competitiveness of local agricultural products and spur local economic activity,' he said.
The officiating event drew participation from the local community, including village leaders, government officials, and agro-based entrepreneurs.
Also present were FAMA Director-General Abdul Rashid Bahri, FAMA Sabah and Labuan director Sarman Sidno and FAMA Market Institution Division director Mohd Shahrizan Mansor.
With the upgraded facilities, the pasar tamu now offers a more systematic and appealing space for local entrepreneurs while serving as a weekly economic and social hub. It is hoped that the initiative will not only foster entrepreneurship but also preserve the traditional market culture that defines Sabah's rural communities.
