Sunway University: Empowering the Desa Mentari Community Through Entrepreneurship
Sunway iLabs spearheads impactful initiatives under the Sunway Desa Mentari Programme, a comprehensive effort by Sunway University to uplift the B40 community residing in Desa Mentari PPPR flats through entrepreneurial empowerment. This programme reflects a collective commitment to fostering positive social impact by leveraging the strengths and expertise of diverse collaborators.
In December, Sunway iLabs at Sunway University conducted the first cohort of the Bengkel Kemahiran dan Motivasi Keusahawanan (BKMK). The workshop brought together nine female micro-entrepreneurs, aged 27 to 57, from the Desa Mentari community. These micro-entrepreneurs, including home-based F&B sellers and traditional saree makers, participated in a two-day session to acquire essential entrepreneurial skills. Key areas of learning included social media marketing in collaboration with TikTok Shop Malaysia and financial literacy, which covered cost estimation and pricing strategies. The success of the workshop was driven by a collaborative effort involving facilitators and mentors from TikTok Shop Malaysia, Sunway iLabs, the Sunway University Community Development and Engagement team, and Sunway students and alumni. They provided hands-on guidance and personalised support to ensure participants could effectively apply their newfound knowledge.
Beyond the workshop, follow-up plans are in place to offer continued support to ensure sustainable growth for these micro-entrepreneurs. This holistic approach underscores the dedication of all involved in driving long-term impact for the Desa Mentari community.
The BKMK initiative highlights Sunway iLabs’ leadership in fostering innovation and addressing real-world challenges. Working in synergy with Sunway University and its extensive ecosystem, this programme demonstrates the transformative power of education and entrepreneurship. By uniting the efforts of multiple stakeholders, Sunway iLabs continues to pave the way for meaningful community development, setting a benchmark for building a more equitable and empowered society.
