“I was thrilled when I received a call from Dr. Thanaraj one morning, informing me that APPGM-SDG had approved funding for our rural women’s skills and entrepreneurship programme,” shared Pn. Arifah, in her opening remarks at the closing ceremony of the tailoring and printing project in Sungai Jernih, Ijok, Larut. Held on 22 November, the event was filled with pride and emotion—every woman I met radiated commitment, determination, and an inspiring drive to grow. It was a truly unforgettable day for them.
During a sharing session, one participant expressed her gratitude, saying that this was the first programme ever brought to her kampung, and that she intended to use the skills gained to improve her life and her family’s future. Her words moved me deeply and reaffirmed what we hold dear in APPGM-SDG: that no one should be left behind. This project stands as a powerful testament to that belief. APPGM-SDG champions grassroots, community-led initiatives managed by the Project Management Department and funded by the Ministry of Finance.
Jari Jahit Komuniti Desa, managed by the Jawatankuasa Pembangunan dan Keselamatan Kampung (JPKK) Kampung Sungai Jernih and led by its Chairperson, Puan Arifah binti Ishak, is one such initiative. Established in January 2025, it aims to create sustainable economic opportunities for residents—especially women. Operating through the Bengkel Jahitan Komuniti Desa Sungai Jernih under the business entity Jahitan Suri Enterprise, the centre is managed by Puan Zanazlina binti Abdul Aziz.
The initiative focuses on three core service areas—sewing, embroidery, and printing. By integrating these services, Jari Jahit Komuniti Desa has positioned itself as a comprehensive one-stop centre serving both residents and external customers. Its programmes target 15 women who are single mothers, housewives seeking additional income, and women eager to develop skills in sewing and embroidery.
Based on reports and continuous monitoring by the project team, the impact has been remarkable. We saw a surge of motivation among women determined to improve their livelihoods. Many are now planning to establish small and medium-scale enterprises in Sungai Jernih, building on the sewing and printing skills they have acquired. Within just six months, tangible progress was visible, although the women expressed a strong need for further guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate with government and non-government partners.
Jari Jahit Komuniti Desa is more than a business initiative—it is a transformative movement that nurtures women’s empowerment, strengthens the village economy, and contributes to the overall well-being of the community. With continued support from residents and the steadfast leadership of JPKK Kampung Sungai Jernih, this enterprise is poised to grow into a recognised sewing and printing hub within the surrounding areas and throughout the Selama Subdistrict, Perak.
Investing in women’s empowerment is one of the most meaningful and impactful ways to utilise resources. This is a lesson APPGM-SDG holds close to heart. Women are powerful catalysts for social mobility—within their families, their communities, and the nation.
