Answer to Oral Question PL261

Reading Summary

📖 Reading time: 2 minutes
📊 Word count: 262 words

YANG BERHORMAT AWANG MOHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH @ LIM SWEE ANN

QUESTION:

YANG BERHORMAT AWANG MOHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH @ LIM SWEE ANN asked the MINISTER OF PRIMARY RESOURCES AND TOURISM if the Ministry allows village residents to sell food or drinks as well as handicrafts in the area using temporary camps to further enhance the village's economy, given the increase in tourist attendance, especially in the area of Luagan Lalak, Mukim Labi, Belait District?

YANG BERHORMAT MENTERI SUMBER-SUMBER UTAMA DAN PELANCONGAN

ANSWER:

The Ministry highly encourages efforts to diversify the local economy as an important step in strengthening the well-being and resilience of our community. The Ministry indeed welcomes all initiatives from individuals, communities, and the private sector to explore innovative and sustainable economic opportunities, including through the sale of local food, drinks, and handicrafts, especially in areas that attract tourists.

As an initial step, interested village residents may formally apply to the Forestry Department through the Ketua Kampong to be considered to ensure all activities are conducted properly and in accordance with regulations.

Any applications submitted will be considered and granted on a temporary basis, taking into account the following matters:

1. Suitability of the location in terms of safety and traffic flow given the limited space in the Luagan Lalak Forest Recreation Park area;

2. The use of camps or temporary sales stalls provided by the applicant themselves and subject to suitability in terms of size; and

3. Compliance with environmental regulations, including cleanliness management, waste disposal, and maintenance of public facilities' hygiene such as toilets.

This measure also aims to preserve environmental sustainability and ensure the safety of all parties while promoting responsible local economic development.