THE natural and organic movement has been gaining traction as the world becomes increasingly conscious of the environment and the ingredients in the products we consume.
At the heart of this movement is the Kuching Natural Farmers Market which has emerged as a beacon for those seeking quality, purity and community-driven commerce.
Amid the vibrant stalls, local sellers and artisans offer a variety of products that reflect not only a commitment to sustainability but also a deep passion for craftsmanship.
Sarawak Tribune conducted a survey in the MBKS car park, where several sellers of organic and herbal products were showcasing their goods yesterday.
For Janet Yeo, 62, the shift toward natural products isn’t just a trend; it’s a lifestyle.
As a local seller at the market, she focuses on crafting goods that are simple yet luxurious, made from only the finest natural ingredients.
“Our products are simple, made from natural raw materials.
“For instance, our egg noodles are crafted with coconut cream and bentonite clay, a substance sourced directly from the earth,” she declares proudly.
Unlike the mass-produced alternatives found in supermarkets, Yeo’s products are free from unnecessary additives.
While other brands may rely on up to 10 different ingredients, Yeo’s offerings consist of as few as four, emphasising purity and simplicity.
“Simplicity is key. The fewer the ingredients, the more you can appreciate the natural flavours and benefits,” she added.
Her dedication extends to her signature salt, which she claims is far superior to the commercial varieties.
“The difference lies in the process. After processing, the salt contains glycerin, which helps draw moisture into the skin.
“Unlike supermarket salts, which may lack this richness, our salt is made with health in mind,” she explained.
Despite the challenges in educating customers about the higher costs of natural products, Yeo’s customer base continues to grow.
“People come here looking for natural products, and while not everyone buys, the response is always encouraging,” she added.
Looking ahead, she hopes the market continues to expand.
“I want more people to realise the value of shopping here. This market is special – it’s about supporting local, and it’s a great alternative to the supermarket,” she said.
As for Lionel Bong, 61, the buzz around local honey is more than just a business – it’s a passion that spans generations.
Sourcing his honey from a friend’s family farm in Bintulu, Bong offers a product that he believes stands apart from mass-produced varieties.
“This honey is pure. It’s 100 per cent natural, free from any artificial additives or sweet syrups,” he said.
At the market, Bong also highlights the importance of educating customers.
“Many people don’t realise that not all honey is the same. We educate them on how to spot pure honey from the commercially produced versions,” he explained.
His dedication to education is reflected in the loyalty of his customers.
“Once they try it, they come back. We have many repeat buyers who return regularly,” he said.
While the market offers an important platform for small-scale businesses like his, Bong hopes for a future where more people discover its hidden gems.
“I hope more people will visit and explore the range of local products. It’s not just about vegetables but about offering authentic, organic items,” he said.
For Bibiana Michael, 58, the Kuching Natural Farmers Market is more than a place to sell – it’s a space to share the fruits of her family’s labour.
Known for her traditional Bidayuh-style lemang and an assortment of organic produce, including rambutan, guava and coconut, Bibiana offers customers a direct connection to the land.
“The market is a wonderful platform for us to showcase what we grow ourselves. It’s not just a business for us – it’s a way to connect with the community,” she said.
Despite the challenges of pricing and the hard work required to harvest these goods, Bibiana remains optimistic.
“People often don’t realise how difficult it is to grow and harvest these items. But they appreciate the quality and the effort that goes into them,” she said.
Looking forward, Bibiana hopes for the continued success of the market.
“I hope they keep prices fair and continue to support vendors like us. It’s an incredible opportunity,” she said.
Chua Yan Heng, 61, has found his calling at the Kuching Natural Farmers Market through his dedication to cultivating adeniums, a daisy plant species.
“We don’t just buy and sell. We grow these plants ourselves,” he said.
His commitment to propagating and grafting local adeniums with varieties from Taiwan has made his stall a destination for plant lovers.
For Chua, the satisfaction lies in the process.
“The success rate of grafting is low, but we enjoy the challenge. It’s not about reselling; it’s about growing and creating something meaningful,” he said.
His dedication to his hobby sets him apart in the market. Although plants may not always attract as many customers as food items, Chua remains hopeful for the future.
“I hope the market will continue to grow, with more types of products available,” he added.
Meanwhile, Michael M. Taha, 75, brings decades of gardening expertise to the market.
His stall is filled with both ornamental and edible plants, including Okinawa spinach, renowned for its health benefits.
For Michael, the market is an opportunity to educate as well as sell.
“Gardening is a lifestyle for me, and I want to share that with others.
“It’s not just about buying plants; it’s about learning how to care for them, appreciate their beauty, and understand their health benefits,” he explained.
Michael’s commitment to quality is evident in his plants, which are carefully nurtured to ensure longevity.
“I only grow established plants with strong roots. When people buy from me, I want them to know that their plants will thrive,” he said.
As he looks toward the future, Michael remains enthusiastic about the market’s potential for growth.
“I hope this market continues to expand, attracting more people and supporting more local vendors. It’s about building a community around nature and sustainability,” he added.
The stories of Janet Yeo, Lionel Bong, Bibiana Michael, Chua Yan Heng, and Michael M. Taha reflect a growing shift toward natural, organic, and locally sourced products.
The Kuching Natural Farmers Market has become more than just a shopping destination.
It’s a hub for people passionate about sustainable living and quality goods.
As more consumers seek natural products that are both good for the body and the environment, the future of the market looks brighter than ever.
It offers a glimpse into a future where local entrepreneurship and organic produce thrive hand in hand.
