IDS BORNEO GRASSROOTS ENTREPRENEURSHIP TOUR & DAYANG INITIATIVE – BRIDGING THE INFORMATION GAP, CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRASSROOTS ENTREPRENEURS

24 MARCH 2025 

KOTA KINABALU (MONDAY): One of the biggest challenges in the relationship between the government and the people is the gap in information dissemination. While the government has many beneficial programmes, these initiatives often do not reach the people, especially those at the grassrooth level in rural areas, due to a lack of access to information. This is why outreach programmes are essential in bridging this gap.

Recognising this issue, the Institute for Development Studies (Sabah), (IDS) in collaboration with Sabah Credit Corporation (SCC), has introduced the Borneo Grassroots Entrepreneurship Tour. This initiative brings information and support directly to communities, offering practical guidance and opportunities to those who may otherwise be left behind.

A key focus of the tour is to empower young women entrepreneurs, who often face challenges such as limited access to funding, training, and business networks. IDS believes that with the right support, these women can play a significant role in strengthening their local economies.

A key component of this programme is the DAYANG (Women Entrepreneurs Empowerment Initiative), a programme introduced under the Sabah State Budget 2025. More than just a financing scheme through SCC, DAYANG also provides training and mentorship to help young women entrepreneurs build sustainable and competitive businesses.

The tour will take place from 24 March to 3 April 2025, covering ten districts: Papar, Sook, Kalabakan, Semporna, Lahad Datu, Beluran, Telupid, Ranau, Pitas, and Tuaran. At each location, IDS and SCC will hold talks, knowledge-sharing sessions, and two-way discussions with at least ten local young women entrepreneurs.

According to IDS Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Ts. Dr. Ramzah Dambul, “This programme is not just about delivering policies; it is about bringing them to life within communities. We want to be present—to listen and to understand, and to engage. DAYANG and this tour represent not just information, but hope.”

By combining a community-friendly approach, direct engagement, and grassroots-level outreach, this programme aims to create more opportunities for those who have long been on the margins of development. IDS believes that when communication gaps are bridged, opportunities become more accessible, leading to real and meaningful change.

For further inquiries or to participate, please contact Chester Axton Balang at 011-25225029 or email info@ids.org.my.