‘Slight boom' for some local businesses amidst SARS fears
By Rosli Abidin Yahya

Bali bamboo furniture has lately been well sought after by home owners

"Someone's lost is another person's gain." While the travel industry is currently undergoing one of its toughest times amidst growing fears of the spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), some local industries have managed to see 'a slight boom' in sales and profits.

"As less people are travelling abroad, many have opt to stay put in the country," observers have said. "In some ways, it has caused a slight boom in profits for some local establishments."

Lydia Iskandar, co-proprietor of Dave Gracia - a furniture shop located in both Kiulap and Pengkalan Gadong, specialising in wood and Bali-style furniture - agrees. However, she admits that there were some difficulties in dealing with clients and making orders.

"As like any other entrepreneur, the fear of SARS has forced me stay at home and conduct orders through phone, fax and email," she explained. "Lately, Bali bamboo furniture has been well sought after by home owners."

Bali furniture companies have recently came forward with new and innovative designs such as furniture made of abasia (banana tree wood) and eceng gondok (water hyacinth).

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin