When a woman is empowered, her entire family—and by extension, her community—thrives. This belief lies at the heart of the APPGM-SDG’s women empowerment initiatives, which have transformed the lives of women across Malaysia through skill development and entrepreneurship training.
In line with this vision, APPGM-SDG funded a structured skills program in Kampung Panggong, Pasir Puteh, bringing together 10 women eager to learn pastry and cake-making over three months. The project, visited on 26 October 2025 by Prof. Denison, James Ryan, and Ms. Shahida, the local coordinator from Tumpat, showcased inspiring stories of determination, resilience, and success.
The training combined technical baking skills—such as making cupcakes, brownies, pizza, donuts, and French bread—with entrepreneurship education focusing on financial management, digital marketing, and product packaging. The program’s goal was clear: to help women gain sustainable income-generating skills and the confidence to run micro-businesses independently.
The results have been remarkable. Several participants have already turned their newfound skills into thriving small businesses. One participant proudly shared that she now earns up to RM 500 a week, while another earns about RM 200 weekly, amounting to RM 800 to RM 2,000 a month in additional household income.
But beyond the numbers, the program’s greatest achievement lies in the transformation of mindsets. The women spoke passionately about how the training instilled motivation, self-confidence, and dignity—qualities that empower them to live sustainably and contribute meaningfully to their communities. No longer dependent on handouts or sympathy, they now take pride in earning through their own skills and hard work.
According to UNICEF, investing in women and girls yields exponential benefits: when girls obtain a secondary education, economies grow as women’s participation and productivity rise. Moreover, research shows that women reinvest up to 90% of their income into their families—far higher than men’s 35%. This ripple effect uplifts not only households but entire communities.
The Pasir Puteh initiative stands as a testament to this truth. By equipping women with marketable skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, APPGM-SDG is not only helping to eradicate poverty but also fostering inclusive, sustainable communities.
For the women of Pasir Puteh, empowerment now has a new meaning—it is baked with purpose, served with pride, and shared with the local community.
