MUSA REOPENS TAMU NIAGA IN GADONG

SIGNING.... Chief Minister Musa Aman signing the plaque at the official opening of the Tamu Niaga in Gadong, Beaufort. He is accompanied by Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for the Lumadan State Seat Kamarlin Ombi (left) and BN candidate for the Sipitang Parliamentary Seat Sapawi Ahmad (middle).

By : ELAINE MAH AND FIZAH YUSOF

THE TAMU Niaga in Kampung Gadong, Beaufort was once popular among residents in Kampung Gadong. After a 30-year hiatus, it was rebuilt by the government and reopened yesterday by Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Musa Aman.

"The Tamu in Kampung Gadong brought back fond memories of my late father, Haji Aman. I remember following him to Gadong to buy buffaloes in those days,” he said.

Musa said with the re-opening of Tamu Niaga Gadong, it would encourage the people to carry out business activities in a more comfortable area equipped with basic amenities. The Tamu Niaga will provide an opportunity for the people to improve their  livelihood.

“The farmers and fishermen can gain additional income, and the entrepreneurs are able to sell agricultural products, handicrafts and food at the Tamu ,” he said.

Datuk Kamarlin Ombi Barisan Nasional candidate for Lumadan state seat said six units of stalls in Tamu Niaga Gadong will enable the people to market their local produce especially their agricultural produce.

He said the new Tamu Niaga Gadong will surely bring a positive impact to the local economy.

Beaufort District Officer Wong Fu Tin praised the government's relentless efforts in developing Lumadan. He said the government under Musa has brought much needed development including the 4.2 million project of replacing many worn out wooden bridges in the area with concrete ones. Roads have also been upgraded and schools built for the benefit of those living in Lumadan.

The D.O. also disclosed that the government has recently approved the establishment of a Mini Estet Sejahtera (MESEJ) project in the area. The MESEJ project - which will involve the planting of oil palm  - will be launched on approximately 300 acres of land and will benefit 33 families falling below the poverty line. (Insight Sabah)