KAPIT: Rural entrepreneurs in Kapit have been urged to step out of their comfort zones and explore wider markets, including at the national and international levels.

Minister of Works Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi said local products from Kapit have proven to be of high quality and hold great potential—provided they are supported with the right platforms and promotional opportunities.

“We don’t want our entrepreneurs to remain champions only in their own backyard. Kapit’s products have demonstrated quality and strong potential for growth.

“With proper guidance, confidence, and the right digital marketing strategies, they can break into larger markets,” he said during the closing ceremony of the Kapit Entrepreneurs Carnival 2025 on Thursday.

The 10-day carnival recorded an encouraging total sales figure of RM178,104.30, involving 26 local entrepreneurs.

The event provided a vital platform to showcase products, gather customer feedback, and build new business networks.

Dato Sri Alexander also emphasised the importance of using social media and digital platforms such as TikTok and e-commerce to expand market reach.

He said the world is rapidly embracing digital transformation, and rural entrepreneurs must keep pace with these changes to remain competitive and sustainable.

“The improved road connectivity between Kapit and Sibu is now opening up more opportunities for entrepreneurs from the interior to widen their distribution networks and cut down on logistics costs,” he added.

The Kapit MP is confident that synergy between the government, private sector, and community will be the key to building a more competitive and resilient rural entrepreneurship ecosystem.

“Our entrepreneurs are just as capable as any others, and it’s time they take bold steps—going beyond Kapit to the rest of Malaysia, and eventually, the world,” he said.

Also present were Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Law and Native Customs), Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, Deputy Minister of Digital and Member of Parliament for Hulu Rajang, Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, Pelagus Assemblyman, Wilson Nyabong Ijang, Baleh Assemblyman, Nicholas Kudi Jantai, Kapit Division Resident, Elvis Didit and Kapit District Council Chairman, Andy Lawrence. -UKASnews