SANDAKAN: Mobile phone repair training under the Urban Community Economic Empowerment Programme (PEKB) is seen as highly relevant in today’s digital communication era, says Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee.
She said such courses not only provide practical skills but also offer participants opportunities to generate side income or pursue full-time careers in line with current market demand.
“Use this golden opportunity to empower our community’s economy,” she said when officiating the closing ceremony of the PEKB 2026 programme organised by the Sabah Women Entrepreneurs and Professionals Association (Swepa).
Vivian said 40 B40 participants took part in the seven-day course, which is funded by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) and implemented in Sabah by Swepa as an appointed NGO.
She added that RM12 million had been allocated for PEKB this year, benefitting 1,100 participants nationwide from the e-Kasih and B40 groups, aimed at improving income levels and living standards.
The programme covers multiple skills including repair services, food and beverage, and mobile fast photography, alongside modules such as financial literacy, human capital development and capacity building.
Vivian said the holistic approach not only builds technical skills but also strengthens mindset and entrepreneurial confidence, with a KPI target for at least 70pc of participants to earn a minimum monthly income of RM815 within six months.
She also noted that PEKB is not a one-off aid programme, but a structured initiative that provides tools, training and one-year monitoring support to ensure participants achieve sustainable income levels.
Swepa President Betty Bridget Epin said the organisation will continue to guide participants over the next 12 months to ensure their businesses grow beyond survival into sustainable entrepreneurship.
She added that participants are encouraged to become competitive, independent entrepreneurs and use their income gains to improve family livelihoods and contribute to the local community.
