Kuala lumpur: The Dapur Digital initiative, implemented across 15 locations in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, has successfully generated over RM2.5 million in economic returns over 18 months, proving the effectiveness of the community empowerment model based on digital entrepreneurship. Communications Minister, Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, said this achievement is not just a statistic, but a testament to the hard work of participants, particularly women from the B40 group, who have become key drivers of the nation's new economy.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi expressed pride in the participants, highlighting the significant economic impact generated by the initiative. During his speech at the Dapur Digital Appreciation Dinner, he emphasized the importance of support, skills, and cooperation in enabling communities to generate sustainable income and create better opportunities. The minister also congratulated participants from the Kerinchi People's Housing Project (PPR) and Kampung Limau PPR for securing four shop lots at Bazaria Pantai.
Fahmi noted that Dapur Digital, a social experiment by Pepper Labs, has demonstrated substantial success and advocated for its replication in other areas. He pledged full support for Pepper Labs' plan to expand Dapur Digital to 15 more locations across the country, hoping that successful participants would become mentors for new groups.
One participant, Normah Hamzah, a 48-year-old from Kerinchi PPR, shared her personal success story. Through Dapur Digital, she increased her daily income from selling nasi lemak from RM60-80 to a more stable income. The initiative provided her with a clean kitchen, enhancing her ability to earn a good income.
Similarly, Suhailah Sharip explained how the initiative helped her and her friends grow their business using current technology trends. They learned to leverage social media to expand their market and improve customer interaction, resulting in noticeable business improvements.
During the event, Fahmi also witnessed the presentation of a Malaysia Book of Records award for the 'Most Community Digital Kitchens by a Social Enterprise' to Dapur Digital, alongside presenting participation certificates. The project empowers the B40 community, especially single mothers and youth, through the digital economy, facilitated by strategic cooperation between government agencies and corporate partners.
Dapur Digital serves as an economic hub, allowing micro-entrepreneurs to generate income by utilizing digital food delivery platforms to expand their market and boost sales.