Rice-based soap innovation sparks creativity, entrepreneurial ventures

BINTULU (Nov 11): Rice, a staple in Malaysian households, is now being explored beyond the dining table through innovative community-based product development.

This was highlighted at a rice-based soap making workshop organised by Dewanita DUBS Bintulu, with support from the Sarawak Women and Family Department, here on Sunday.

The event was officiated by Deputy Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Rosey Yunus, who commended the initiative for opening new avenues of knowledge and income-generation opportunities for local communities.

She said the workshop aligns with government efforts to encourage Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that leverage local natural resources.

“Rice, which has always been essential in our daily meals, can now be diversified into other forms of beneficial products, including natural skincare such as soap and cosmetics,” she said.

Rosey emphasised that such innovation promotes environmental sustainability while holding strong commercial potential.

“With creativity, knowledge, and the skills gained from this workshop, participants can move beyond hobby-level production and explore entrepreneurial opportunities that generate income,” she added.

She encouraged participants to apply their learning by producing samples, testing market demand, and continuously improving product quality.

“This workshop should be viewed as a starting point to nurture more competitive, creative, and innovative entrepreneurs,” she said.

Rosey also urged ongoing collaboration between government agencies, private sectors, and community organisations to ensure initiatives like this continue supporting local economic development.

Also present were DUBS Bintulu deputy chairperson Cecelia Lagak, and head of Dewanita DUBS Bintulu Hellen Anbi.