The Consulate of Indonesia in Tawau, in collaboration with Sthamin Supermarket, inaugurated the 'Indonesian Corner' at Sthamin Supermarket Hilltop, Tawau, on April 2nd. This dedicated stand showcases Indonesian products previously available in the market, along with those from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the North Kalimantan province. The inauguration ceremony was officiated by Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bin Bandy, Assistant Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship of Sabah, also serving as the Member of Parliament for P191 Kalabakan and State Assemblyman for N71 Tanjung Batu. The event was graced by the presence of the Indonesian Consul in Tawau, Mrs. Heni Hamidah, and Mr. Haji Busthamin bin Paita, the owner of Sthamin Supermarket. Attendees included representatives from the Tarakan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KADIN), Border Indonesian Entrepreneurs Association, Assistant Minister's representative to the Chief Minister of Sabah, MP P.190 Tawau, Representative from the State of Sabah's Islamic Women's Welfare Board, Representatives from BUMN Nunukan House, and MSMEs from North Kalimantan.
During the occasion, the Indonesian Consul in Tawau highlighted that the establishment of the "Indonesian Corner" as a platform for promoting Indonesian products is a diplomatic economic effort, aligning with Indonesia's foreign policy objectives. The corner aims to promote outstanding Indonesian products already circulated in Tawau and introduce MSME products from North Kalimantan, including food and beverages. Throughout the program, North Kalimantan MSMEs such as CV Taraban Berkah (Sambal Dayak), Regan Chocolates, and Raftrasa Mocca Crispy Brownies actively participated in showcasing Indonesian products. The entrepreneurs expressed hope for continued collaboration, involving more Indonesian MSMEs, especially those near the border, to promote and market their products in Malaysia. Considering Sabah's economic potential, geographical proximity, and the significant presence of Indonesian nationals in the Tawau region, it is anticipated that the Indonesian Corner will contribute to introducing more Indonesian products to Sabah's residents, fostering closer relations between the people of both nations.
