Budget 2024 Fuels Economic Empowerment for PPR Women through Social Enterprise Partnership

The launch of the Dapur Digital (Cloud Kitchen) by the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), YB Dr. Zaliha Mustafa, at PPR Wangsa Sari marks a significant step in empowering the B40 entrepreneurs and MSME in Malaysia, particularly women and youth entrepreneurs, through digital economy innovation. This initiative is a strategic initiative by the Ministry of Finance Malaysia through Yayasan Hasanah in partnership with the Federal Territories Department (JWP), Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), and Pepper Labs social enterprise.

Transforming PPR Communities Through Smart Infrastructures and Digital Economy 

This project includes the transformation of five underutilized facilities within PPR, including PPR Wangsa Sari, PPR Intan Baiduri, PPR Kampung Limau, PPR Kerinchi, and PA Setapak Jaya 1A, into community cloud kitchens supported by digital and technology infrastructures. These kitchens function as economic hubs and innovation spaces that enable B40 women entrepreneurs, particularly single mothers, to generate income with flexibility while managing their families.

These Cloud Kitchens are equipped with modern technologies, allowing entrepreneurs to expand their markets digitally through platforms like GrabFood, ShopeeFood, and FoodPanda. With food technology integration, entrepreneurs can reach more online customers, increase sales, and build sustainable businesses.

Professional Micro-Credential through University @ PPR Concept

The project not only focuses on physical facilities but also offers comprehensive training programs led by professional chefs and experts in food technology. Project participants receive micro-credential certification in Cloud Kitchen Management from UNITAR, making them certified entrepreneurs. This is the first initiative of its kind in Malaysia with a University @ PPR concept, providing formal recognition to B40 women entrepreneurs in the digital economy.

Cloud Kitchens Generate RM 35,000 in First Month

To date, the Cloud Kitchens have shown significant impact in generating income and empowering B40 women entrepreneurs. Several operational cloud kitchens have recorded monthly incomes above RM10,000. This project has also created job opportunities for local youths and provided business support to single mothers.

Within two years, the project is expected to generate cumulative income exceeding RM1.2 million through five fully operational cloud kitchens. This target will be achieved through continuous mentorship in food technology, business management, and digital innovation for the 50 micro-entrepreneurs involved.

This project is part of the government's efforts to empower the B40 community and eradicate hardcore poverty, as envisioned by the Prime Minister in Budget 2024 and MADANI aspiration with the support from the Ministry of Finance, Malaysia.

Broader Vision: Public-Private-Philanthropy Collaboration and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through Social Enterprise

The Cloud Kitchen is an excellent example of public-private-philanthropy collaboration, where the Ministry of Finance, through Yayasan Hasanah, has played a crucial role in funding and providing strategic management. With Pepper Labs social enterprise as the anchor, this project proves that cross-sector collaboration can bring broader and more sustainable impacts to communities.

In the bigger picture, this project contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in eradicating poverty (SDG 1), ending hunger (SDG 2), promoting decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and fostering sustainable innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9). Additionally, the Cloud Kitchens support responsible production and consumption (SDG 12) by incorporating smart food management technology.

Support Needed for Expansion and Future Growth

Through a wishlist in Budget 2025, Pepper Labs proposes to accelerate this initiative through attractive tax incentives and scaling social procurement for social enterprises in Malaysia. Stronger collaborations between public, private, and philanthropic sectors can expedite the expansion of similar projects nationwide, benefiting women micro-entrepreneurs and B40 communities.

Social Enterprise as an Effective Partner for Government

The Dapur Digital is a national aspiration to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient digital economy community whilst narrowing the digital gap as Malaysia sets its path towards a High-Income Nation by 2028. Through this launch, we strengthen our commitment to social transformation and grassroots economic empowerment. Pepper Labs and its strategic partners are determined to continue empowering more micro-entrepreneurs, expanding business opportunities, and contributing to the nation's digital economy growth.

This content is provided by Pepper Labs Sdn Bhd.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.

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