Ng Kor Sim highlights importance of supporting local businesses to retain youth and boost economy
SEGAMAT: Initiatives that shine a spotlight on small-town entrepreneurs are crucial for driving local economic development, according to Jementah assemblywoman Ng Kor Sim, who has made this a cornerstone of her legislative agenda since taking office.
Ng emphasised that programmes such as the recently concluded Central and Southern Zone New Village Good Products Competition 2025 provide essential platforms for small-town business owners to showcase their products and achieve national recognition.
“As someone who grew up in a kampung myself, I am always inspired to witness the creativity and determination of entrepreneurs who start from modest circumstances but harbour ambitious aspirations. Their resilience embodies the authentic spirit of our small towns,” Ng said.
The state assemblyman revealed that Uncle Sam Sesame Puff, a bakery from Kampung Abdullah in Jementah, was among the businesses shortlisted to compete in the competition, demonstrating that local producers possess the capability to compete successfully alongside counterparts from across Malaysia.
“These initiatives transcend mere commerce. They represent the creation of hope and opportunities in communities like Jementah and Segamat,” Ng explained.
“When local enterprises flourish, more young people will find compelling reasons to remain, work, and establish their futures here rather than migrating to major cities,” she added.
The New Village Good Products Competition celebrates high-quality products including traditional pastries and ready-to-drink beverages from Chinese new villages throughout Malaysia.
Winners receive Good Product certification as formal recognition of their quality standards and innovative approaches.
The competition took place at Sutera Mall in Johor Bahru from October 24 to 26, with Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming presenting awards to the winners.
PMN Biscuit Industries Sdn Bhd emerged as the champion of the competition.
Ng stated that her office will continue working to identify promising entrepreneurs and facilitate their connections with government-offered development programmes and market access initiatives.
“This represents one of the approaches through which we can maintain Jementah’s economic momentum and demonstrate to our youth that viable futures exist right here at home,” she said.
The state assemblyman noted that the forthcoming KTM Electric Train Service (ETS) connecting Gemas and Johor Bahru, anticipated to commence full operations by year-end, will complement existing efforts to strengthen the local economy.
“Enhanced transportation connectivity will provide our local producers with improved access to larger markets whilst simultaneously making Jementah more appealing for business expansion and talent retention,” Ng explained.
Her office also intends to promote additional small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through short video content and outreach initiatives that share the narratives behind their products, giving consumers insight into the passion and dedication driving local businesses.
The emphasis on supporting small-town entrepreneurs reflects a broader strategy to ensure sustainable economic development that benefits local communities whilst preserving the unique character of rural business ecosystems in Johor.
