Kota Belud, 23 March 2023 – Sustainable growth begins by learning the necessary tools to thrive. In line with this belief, Prudential Assurance Malaysia Berhad (PAMB), Prudence Foundation and Hopes Malaysia established PRUCare Farming Sustainability Programme, to empower 60 families from disadvantaged communities to develop small-scale farming techniques to improve food self-sufficiency while generating a sustainable income source.

Today marked the closing ceremony of Phase One of the programme that started in February 2022 with a funding amount of RM270,000. During this period, 310 beneficiaries from 60 families were trained and given tools to start up their own vegetable and fish farm while selling surplus produce. In addition to improving food security, the families saw a marked increase in income at 55 per cent on average. Given the programme’s success, a Second Phase involving 50 more families in Kota Belud will commence on 1 May 2023 to 30 April 2024 with a funding amount of RM220,000[1].

“We all know how devastating Covid-19 was on food security and income sources for many families, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Hence this programme’s goal is to help families not only improve their access to food and nutrition but also offer a second source of income in a sustainable manner that positively impacts their family and community for the long-term,” said Eric Wong, Chief Marketing and Partnerships Distribution Officer of PAMB.

The PRUCare Farming Sustainability Programme includes three parts; to impart techniques and knowledge on how to maintain vegetable and fish farms, to provide high demand seeds, fish fry and farming equipment, and to give a platform for the farmers to sell their produce at markets. Additionally, 22 volunteers consisting of Prudential Wealth Planners invested 176 hours throughout the programme to help farmers prepare land for crops, set up fish tanks and sow seeds.

Project beneficiary, Kihin bt Gudan, 57, from Kampung Pinolobuh was only earning around RM300 before joining the project. The sole-provider for her child said, “My money was not consistent, and whatever I made went to our food or house repairs.”

Throughout the programme, Kihin learned how to improve soil fertility and boost crop yield. Since then, she has managed to sell her harvests in local markets. As a result, her family’s income has increased to over RM3,000, up by 90 per cent a month.

“We can eat as many vegetables as we want now. We are never hungry. I couldn’t spend time making bags before, but now I have less worries, said Kihin who now can focus on producing crafts in addition to farming.

For Duliam Kuliat, 62, from Kampung Bukid, having plenty of fish and crops has improved the diet of her 11 family members, while also greatly reducing the amount they spend on food each month. Through selling her surplus harvests, the family has earned up to 70 per cent more per month.

“Every month we can save a bit of money for emergencies or my children’s studies. I feel less stressed now if something happens in the future,” said Duliam.

Wong said, “Prudential’s purpose is to build financial resilience for underserved families and children in Malaysia. By empowering communities with our partners, we ensure sustainable livelihoods that will gradually improve a family’s earnings and give the next generation an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty.”

Notes:
[1] Details updated as of 31 March 2023 to reflect increase in participants, funding and change in programme’s start and completion dates.
 

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