Zero to Hero Sewing Program Year 2021
About the Program
The "Zero to Hero in Sewing Program" is a strategic community empowerment initiative established through a collaboration between PPB Group Berhad and the Persatuan Seni Jahitan Kreatif Malaysia (PSJKM). Developed in response to the economic challenges brought about by the global pandemic, the program is specifically designed to empower individuals from B40 communities, including those affected by job loss, reduced income, and limited employment opportunities.
The program's mission is to transform participants from having little or no sewing experience into confident and capable micro-entrepreneurs through a structured journey of skills development, entrepreneurship training, and continuous mentorship. Through intensive hands-on creative sewing modules, participants acquire practical technical skills while also learning essential business fundamentals such as product costing, pricing strategies, marketing, and customer engagement.
Participant Selection & Census Process with Our Sponsor, PPB
To ensure that this fully sponsored aid reaches the target groups who need it most, we conduct a meticulous **census (banci)** process for participant selection. This screening is managed directly alongside our primary sponsor, PPB Group Berhad.
Primary Selection Target Groups:- Individuals from the B40 income group who possess a strong interest in starting a sewing business.
- Affected individuals who need an alternative income source to support their family's economic survival.
- Open to diverse backgrounds, including housewives, single mothers, Individuals with Disabilities (OKU) and youth.
Training Curriculum & Syllabus Breakdown
The program consists of 6 days of intensive training covering theory, practical hands-on work, and digital business management:
Creative Sewing Skills & Mindset Development
Focuses on building an entrepreneurial spirit, introducing the functions of high-technology sewing machines, and mastering practical item creation (such as Strawberry Recycled Bags, Tote Bags, and Aprons). Participants are also taught exact step-by-step methods for cost calculation and product retail pricing.
Digital Entrepreneurship Day
The focus pivots completely toward brand management. Participants are trained in taking professional-grade product photography using smartphones, setting up an e-commerce online storefront step-by-step, and handling digital inventory uploads.
Participant Activity Gallery
Take a look at the highlights from our practical training sessions, eco-friendly upcycled crafts, and classes at the Sewing World Gallery:
Post-Training Support Ecosystem
We ensure no participant is left behind after completing the course. Graduates are fully supported with a 1-year market sustainability ecosystem:
6-Month Monitoring & Progress Tracking
Continuous monitoring and consultation support are provided to try our best to help participants smoothly navigate the early stages of running a home business.
12-Month Premium Online Classes
A year-long membership to our Premium Group E-Learning platform allows graduates to continuously learn new sewing projects and advanced techniques.
6,000 Learning Points for Advanced Courses
Free credits allocated for flexible, advanced physical classes at any of our 14 Epal Handicraft Training Centers nationwide (covering Garments, Home Decor, Accessories, and Upcycling).
Instant Marketplace Access
A complimentary 1-year e-commerce shop placement on the exclusive The Tunku Azizah Handmade Market online platform, allowing crafters to sell directly to consumers.
Socio-Economic Impacts of the Program
Breaking the Poverty Cycle
Empowers low-income communities by unlocking concrete, flexible, home-based business opportunities that allow them to uplift their household income.
Fostering Complete Self-Reliance
Builds a resilient and independent community, boosting the confidence of participants by minimizing long-term reliance on external handouts and aid.
Environmental Contributions (Upcycling)
Through dedicated fabric upcycling and recycling modules, the program educates communities to create eco-friendly, sustainable craft products.
Sponsored Benefits Package Value
Each applicant selected through our census process receives a complete sponsorship package, covering:
- All course training fees, classroom raw materials, meals, and an official PSJKM Completion Certificate.
- Each participant receives a high-technology sewing machine and complete sewing toolkit. Upon completing the 6-day training, participants may take the equipment home to continue practicing and developing their skills. Full ownership of the sewing machine will be awarded after successfully completing the 6-month mentoring and monitoring program and passing the final assessment
- E-store digital infrastructure setup and a full 12 months of post-course market support.
Join Hands With Us: Become a Sponsor or Collaborator
Help us transform more lives. We invite corporate entities, government agencies, and NGOs to collaborate or sponsor upcoming batches of B40 participants alongside Sewing world/PSJKM and our valued partners.
Contact Our Secretariat / Apply as Sponsor