KUCHING: The latest business chamber in Sarawak — the Orang Ulu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OUCCI) — has been officially launched by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg at The Waterfront Hotel here today.
The establishment of OUCCI was among the resolutions of the Orang Ulu Cultural Symposium held in Miri in November 2018.
The resolution was supported by the chief minister, who pledged a seed fund of RM10 million for the Chamber.
Headquartered in Miri, the Chamber was formally registered with the Registrar of Societies on Sept 13, 2019.
Its mission is to create a community of progressive, successful, and respected Orang Ulu entrepreneurs.
OUCCI will act as an umbrella body on behalf of the Orang Ulu business community to meet their needs and expectations to be on par with other groups.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, OUCCI president Datuk Mutang Tagal said the Chamber aims to facilitate the creation of a community of Orang Ulu entrepreneurs focused on the holistic development of the community in all areas — a robust economy, excellence in education, inculcating good social and cultural values, as well as adopting good management and governance practices in business.
“The Chamber is a platform for Orang Ulu entrepreneurs and professionals to share ideas and resources for mutual benefits and for the benefit of the Orang Ulu communities.
“The Chamber will liaise and engage with the state and federal governments and their ministries, agencies, and departments on behalf of its members in all matters relating to trade, industries, and commerce.
“OUCCI will work and cooperate with other business chambers and trade associations having the same aspirations as the Chamber to achieve mutual objectives and benefits,” he said.
He added that the Chamber will also conduct talks, workshops, seminars, training, and upskilling for its members to assist them in their respective businesses.
OUCCI hopes that more business people will join the organisation so that it can help represent their needs more effectively.