KUCHING: In the world of entrepreneurship, some carve unconventional paths to success. Among them is Umar @ Amin Abang, a visionary businessman who has turned his love for horses into a thriving business.
He said that apart from his love for horses, his passion for horseback riding and horse racing also motivated him to delve into this venture.
His journey in the business world began at 27 years old when he launched his enterprise, Beraya Stable.
“When I first started, I purchased racing horses from Sabah. Though it was a bit pricey and we had to transport them by lorry to Kuching, it did not stop me from pursuing my passion.
“From there, I began my business venture and that was the start of everything,” he said in an interview with New Sarawak Tribune.
He added that having racing horses needs commitment and extra time in one’s life.
“For example, before we can enter a horse into competition, besides taming it, we first need to train it.
“For the training aspect, the horses need to run around the track every day for at least a month before they are ready to race.
“Additionally, these horses are given vitamins to keep them healthy,” he said.
What sets Amin’s enterprise apart from others is his unique blend of business with pleasure.
Understanding that horses are not just athletes but also cherished companions, he has participated in events like the Agrofest here, offering the public a chance to experience recreational horseback riding.
Elaborating further, Amin said owning horses is similar to having cats as a pet.
“Sometimes they are moody and sometimes they choose people who can ride them, which are similar to cats when it comes to who can rub their bellies and so on.
“But overall, taming and training them is not hard because once they get used to us, they will understand us,” he said.
Discussing the horse’s diet, Amin shared that feeding one horse can cost between RM300 to RM400 a month. His horses typically consume pellets, grains, and grass.
Currently, Amin owns nine racing horses kept at his track in Batu 8 and a few more at his farm in Matang.
