Towards Uplifting Lives Program (TULiP)
Challenge
Despite efforts made over the years by various federal and regional governments, poverty persists in many parts of the world particularly in emerging nations. Although Sarawak is rich in natural resources, it is still among the states with a high poverty percentage which is 10.7% of the 625,400 households (Borneo Post, 2022). The state’s population was greatly aided in approached the Lun Bawang ethnicity in Lawas, Sarawak and provided them training for income-generating business.
Initiative
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) are collaborating with PETRONAS, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) and Pertubuhan Peduli Insan on this project. The Centre of Social Innovation (CoSi), one of UTP’s research centers, focuses on social business for zero poverty, education innovation for zero unemployment, and programmes for the residents of Lawas, Sarawak. This initiative also focuses on enhancing employability (through skill and training development) and revenue creation (by entrepreneurship capability development). The Lawas Community is also provided with funds for the development of a cabin-style production house.
Outcome
LINAWA
The Linawa brand is inspired by the Lun Bawang Ethnic artistry signifying exclusivity, intricacy, and excellence. Linawa serves as the signature product of the community in Lawas, offering organic products with unique variants originated from an inlcusive grassroot social innovation based on Lawas’ indigenous heritage.
Koperasi Usahasama Long Sukang aims to oversee the production and business operations of Linawa. Currently, there are 7 members in Koperasi Usahasama Long Sukang led by Miss Jenny Alau Baru as the Chair. Lawas community leaders consisting of 10 farmers and 10 operators in Long Sukang take part in the production of Linawa rice and coffee.
This product is a result of a corporate social responsibility initiative between
Lawas Community,
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP),
Yayasan Hasanah,
Ministry of Finance,
MARDI,
PEDULI INSAN
& PETRONAS.
