Mara to help Bumis explore bigger industries

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KUCHING: Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) is keen to help Bumiputera entrepreneurs venture into bigger industries such as material supply and construction.

Mara council member Datuk Ariss Samsudin said Bumiputera entrepreneurs should not just focus on small- and medium-sized businesses.

“We should not become the observers in the business world but instead intensify our efforts by diversifying and gradually expanding horizons into the bigger share,” said Ariss during the launching of the state-level Mara Day and entrepreneur expo yesterday.

Since its formation 46 years ago, Ariss said, Mara had successfully helped numerous Bumiputera entrepreneurs to build their businesses, as well as form the Mara education division.

“We currently have two Institut Kemahiran Mara (IKM), three Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM) and 31 Giatmara centres in Sarawak and it is a testament of MARA’s focus to ensure our younger generation will not be left behind in terms of education.

“In addition to that, our new IKM in Bintulu will start its operations and receive new students in July,” he said.

Mara would continue to develop, he said, as part of its transformation plan in the best interests of the people.

Meanwhile, Mara state director Shazali Salleh said Sarawak has 11 divisional Mara offices.

“It is our hope that this three-day expo will be a platform for participants to showcase their products and services,” he said.

A total of 24 entrepreneurs are participating in the three-day expo located at the Plaza Astana car park.

A help desk on various Mara divisions has also been set up to assist the public with enquiries.