By Anne Das (Photos by Balqis Jazimah Zahari)
The PWW Baking Studio, a collaboration between the Perak Women for Women Society (PWW) and KRT Taman Harmoni Buntong, is making a remarkable difference in the lives of women from the B40 community. Many of these women began with no baking experience, relying on trial and error and the guidance of volunteer chefs and cooks to learn their craft. This ongoing initiative is helping them gain valuable skills, build confidence, and open new doors of opportunity.
The PWW Baking Studio is not just a place for learning how to bake; it serves as a vital platform for personal and professional development. Participants are acquiring essential baking and entrepreneurship skills, allowing them to create and sell a variety of baked goods, including pastries and Bomboloni (Italian Doughnuts). They are transforming their lives and supporting their families through small businesses, while also building a strong sense of community and mutual support.
Currently, the third batch of participants is in the midst of their three-month training course. They recently held a casual tasting event to gauge their progress. Seven women proudly presented their homemade creations to a panel of volunteer critics, including Mr. Muhammad Faiz bin Abdullah, Chairman of the Rukun Tetangga for Harmoni Flats. His support has been instrumental in the initiative’s success. Other guests included Chef Derrick, Ms. Kanna Jeyaratnam, and Ms. Uthaya, a successful home-based business owner who shared valuable insights on entrepreneurship.
The PWW Baking Studio was strategically established within the Rukun Tetangga office at Harmoni Flats to be easily accessible to local women. This thoughtful placement allows those with limited opportunities to acquire new skills in a supportive environment. Harmoni Flats, with 375 units and nearly 1,500 residents from the B40 group, benefits greatly from this initiative. The program not only teaches baking/cooking but also covers entrepreneurship and basic accounting, equipping women with the tools to start their own businesses.
The studio has seen three batches of women participate, with the third batch including residents from neighbouring areas such as Cherry Park, Taman Meru, and First Garden. This expansion reflects the growing interest and impact of the program, which continues to attract women from beyond Harmoni Flats.
Join Them in Making a Difference
The PWW Baking Studio is seeking passionate individuals to join its team of volunteers. If you have a passion for cooking or baking and want to share your skills, PWW invites you to get involved. Your contribution can make a significant difference in empowering women and supporting their entrepreneurial dreams.
To learn more about how you can contribute or to get involved, Please email PWW Baking Studio at perakwomemforwomen@gmail.com with your enquiry.
Kudos to the women of the PWW Baking Studio for their inspiring dedication to transforming their lives. Thanks to all the volunteers and supporters who have been integral to this initiative’s success, and special recognition to Mr. Muhammad Faiz for his unwavering commitment to the community.
Here’s to continued boundless empowerment, the unstoppable spirit of women and many more delicious creations!
