CJMY
Backyard Kokol, nestled on the outskirts of Kota Kinabalu city in Sabah, has emerged as a captivating eco-tourism-based village homestay, attracting visitors with its serene ambiance and breathtaking natural beauty.
The brainchild of young entrepreneur Denny Julius Teo from Tuaran, this eco-friendly village homestay has garnered recognition from the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Datuk Ewon Benedick, who recently visited the site.
A journey into nature’s embrace
Backyard Kokol stands as a testament to Denny Julius Teo’s passion for environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.
The village homestay operates entirely on solar energy and gravity-fed water, embodying an eco-friendly ethos that resonates with nature enthusiasts and environmentally conscious travelers alike.
Backyard Kokol spreads over a vast area of 23,000 square feet. The property offers 35 rooms and five premium camps, each capable of accommodating up to four people.
Its serene village environment, coupled with awe-inspiring scenery, immerses visitors in an unparalleled experience of tranquility.
The allure of Backyard Kokol lies in its diverse offerings, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
From exploring the stunning landscapes and limestone cliffs to indulging in the warmth of Malaysian hospitality, guests can delve into a harmonious blend of relaxation and thrill.
Empowering through cooperatives
Ewon’s recent visit to Backyard Kokol also highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship and cooperatives in driving sustainable development. The Minister recognized the potential of Backyard Kokol to inspire the youth of Sabah to explore entrepreneurial opportunities across various fields.
To support village homestay entrepreneurs like Denny Julius Teo, the Minister introduced various financing options available through agencies under his ministry.
These include the Malaysian Cooperative Commission (MCC), National Entrepreneur Group Economic Fund (Tekun Nasional), Malaysian People’s Trust Foundation (Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia or AIM), SME Corp, and Bank Rakyat.
Encouraging the establishment of cooperatives, the Minister emphasized the benefits they offer to entrepreneurs. By forming a family cooperative, Backyard Kokol entrepreneurs can access suitable facilities and financing to enhance their business operations and growth.
Currently, Sabah boasts 1,707 registered cooperatives with the MCC, making it the second-highest state in the country in terms of cooperative numbers. The Minister’s efforts to promote cooperatives aim to increase awareness and create more opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs in the state.
As Backyard Kokol continues to thrive as a vibrant eco-tourism destination, it represents the perfect synergy between environmental conservation and responsible tourism. The homestay’s commitment to solar energy and sustainability resonates with travelers seeking an authentic experience in harmony with nature.
For more information on Backyard Kokol, please visit their Facebook page.
Source: Borneo Post
