Kuala Lumpur: Held on Nov 14, the programme provided a platform for female Grab drivers to share financial challenges and learn strategies to strengthen and stabilise their financial management.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mariahton Kiptiah Abd Manap, 53, admitted that she previously paid little attention to financial management, but after attending the programme, she now feels more confident in planning her expenses effectively. “I wasn’t disciplined in saving before, and my earnings would often just ‘disappear’. However, after looking at the spending schedule taught in this programme, I can now organise my expenses systematically. I also realise the importance of planning expenses daily, monthly, and yearly to ensure I always have savings. With solid savings, I can prepare for emergencies and also for insurance, as health is not always guaranteed,” she said.

Mariahton, a full-time Grab driver since 2017, noted that Grab’s flexibility allows her to balance her maternal duties and earn a living. “Gra
b doesn’t stop me from being a mother. With flexible hours, I can manage my time for my children, such as sending them to school, cooking, and still earning a living. Through this programme, I’ve gained further knowledge to manage my schedule more effectively,” she explained. The mother of four added that her daily income of around RM100 to RM300 as a Grab driver helps her settle debts and pay for her children’s education until they complete their studies.

Meanwhile, Nor Ezatul Farrita Shaari, 46, a single mother of three, shared that the financial management workshop changed her perspective on financial discipline. “When I calculated my yearly earnings, I was shocked to realise I could actually earn RM100,000, but I didn’t see the results due to poor financial management. This class taught me to discipline myself (in managing finances) according to schedule. Now I have a financial plan for the year and beyond,” she said. She added that the financial knowledge she gained not only helps her organise her daily
expenses but also boosts her confidence that women can be independent without relying on others.

Ezatul also described the workshop as a chance to discover one’s potential and evaluate smarter ways of working. “What’s interesting is that there were activities like answering questions and recording expenses, which helped me understand myself better. From there, I identified my weaknesses and strengths and could plan to achieve something bigger,” she added. “Many people come to me not to buy insurance or invest but to find solutions for their debt issues. That’s why I developed strategies to help them.”

Financial advisor Aisya Rahman, who led the masterclass, emphasized the focus on financial management for female gig workers, addressing topics such as Money Trauma, Cash Flow, and Risk Management. She highlighted Grab as a platform providing a ‘second chance,’ enabling individuals, including female drivers, to improve their lives. “I believe women need to learn proper financial planning and get the right guid
ance. This process takes time and patience to build confidence and resilience in facing life’s challenges,” she concluded.