KBBB plans for new mall to help local businesses

KOPERASI Bumiputera Bersatu Berhad (KBBB) is planning to construct a new shopping mall at Perumahan Tanah Jambu (Lambak Kanan) in Mukim Mentiri.

The mall, described by KBBB as highly modern, will spanover an area of 10 acres.

Badan Kemajuan Industri Brunei (BINA) of the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources has pledged its full support for the project.

KBBB has ambitious targets for the project, envisioning that it will stimulate the nation's economy in accordance with His Majesty's Government's 2035 Vision by encouraging economic participation not only around Mukim Mentiri but from the rest of Brunei as well. Apart from furthering Brunei's economy, KBBB also developed the project to address directly the needs of many small business operators which currently do not have proper venues to conduct their business.

Ismalee Hj Mohammad Jali, the Director of KBBB, in an exclusive with The Brunei Times, explained the plight of Brunei Malay businesses, especially during the month of Ramadhan, where one can observe those who operate business in small tents or simply by the street sides.

"Such conditions (for businesses) are not contingent to successful expansion and growth. The scope of such business will ultimately be limited. With the construction of a new mall, expansion both in physical size and of potential customer base is more achievable,"said Ismalee.

The director added that as the representative body of Malay and Indigenous groups in Brunei, it was the KBBB's responsibility to protect and further the interest of Brunei Malay businesses, so that they are able to maximise their potential. The new mall would cater to such businesses and create opportunities for them to pursue their business operations in a more optimal environment.

The project is currently seek-ing approval from His Majesty's Government, and will begin construction in 2013 upon approval.

The Brunei Times