Recoda launches vending machines for B40 entrepreneurs under IPR Insan initiative

KUCHING (Oct 15): The Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) launched three vending machines under the People’s Income Initiative (IPR) – Food Entrepreneurs Initiative today.

Recoda chief executive officer Datuk Ismawi Ismuni symbolically handed over keys to the IPR Insan machines at LCDA Tower, which houses Recoda’s headquarters, to the three selected B40 entrepreneurs.

The initiative is part of the broader IPR programme initiated by the Ministry of Economy.

“It focuses on supporting low-income B40 households by providing entrepreneurial opportunities to boost their income and alleviate poverty. Participants benefit from a two-year vending machine rental subsidy, allowing them to operate food vending machines without any upfront costs,” Recoda said in a press statement.

“This programme directly addresses the financial challenges faced by B40 entrepreneurs, providing them a platform to build sustainable businesses.

In addition to empowering entrepreneurs, the vending machines cater to individuals with busy lifestyles, especially those working in the building, by offering freshly prepared meals three times a day.”

Prices for the machine are capped at RM7, which Recoda said offers “convenience and affordability, setting them apart from similar machines”.

Ismawi called on participants to consistently maintain food quality by ensuring the cleanliness and freshness of their products.

“We are proud not just to witness, but actively support the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey. The skills and opportunities provided through IPR Insan will set them up for long-term success.

“We look forward to seeing these businesses thrive and hope this initiative will inspire more individuals to take control of their economic futures,” he said.

The vending machines are placed at Block C, UiTM Kota Samarahan; Sarawak General Hospital (SGH); and the ground floor lobby of LCDA Tower.

Entrepreneur Siti Hajar Adam, whose vending machine is located at the LCDA Tower, expressed her gratitude for being selected as a participant in the IPR programme.

Siti said she is eager to make the most of this opportunity and hopes to further explore her journey into the culinary field by producing clean, healthy, and delicious food.

Fellow entrepreneur Dahlia Su’ut, whose vending machine is stationed at SGH, said the IPR Insan Programme has broadened her perspective on ways to expand her business.

“With the support and guidance provided, I feel more confident in my ability in facing future challenges in this industry,” she said.

Dahlia said her involvement in the IPR Insan programme has armed her with theoretical knowledge as well as practical experience, which are invaluable in her journey as an entrepreneur.

“I would like to thank all of the parties involved in this programme, especially Recoda, my mentors, and my fellow participants. I will work hard to apply everything I have learned here, to continue to succeed in this industry,” Dahlia said.

Entrepreneur Shafiq Erwan, whose vending machine is located at UiTM Kota Samarahan, expressed his appreciation for the platform provided by Recoda.

“The excitement I feel is very electric, knowing that my products will soon be accessible at the touch of a button! This vending machine isn’t just a machine; it’s a gateway to my entrepreneurial journey, a direct connection between my dreams and the people I’ll serve.

“There’s something so empowering about knowing that every time someone uses that vending machine, it represents a step closer to my goals,” he said.

Beyond the IPR Insan initiative, Recoda remains committed to uplifting communities through various socioeconomic programmes, including IPR Intan (Agro Entrepreneur Initiative), which supports agricultural entrepreneurs, and the Community@SCORE programme, which aims to improve living standards for the B40 group across Sarawak.

Community@SCORE focuses on spurring socioeconomic development through 108 projects in areas under the Upper Rajang Development Agency (Urda), Highland Development Agency (HDA), and the Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA), as well as Mukah and Simunjan.

These projects include 43 agriculture and aquaculture initiatives, 17 tourism and handicraft projects, as well as 48 small and medium entrepreneur initiatives.

Additionally, Recoda plays a key role in implementing the Hardcore Poverty Eradication programme launched by the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) and Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department.