Graduates of SDP’s empowerment programme celebrating their achievement at a ceremony in Kuala Lumpur.
A MAJOR property developer in Malaysia believes that “progress is measured not only by what is built, but by lives positively impacted”.
As such, Sime Darby Property (SDP) continues to empower communities and promote environmental stewardship via its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
According to a media release from SDP, one such effort saw 39 microentrepreneurs in its townships graduate from phase two of its Economic Empowerment Programme (EEP) in 2025.
Participants recorded an average income growth of 242%, with 79% achieving higher monthly earnings averaging RM7,643, SDP said.
They also recorded a 110% average increase in business knowledge, while 87% expanded their digital presence, enhancing market reach and long-term sustainability.
Among the success stories is that of Noradini Abdul Razak, a home-based food entrepreneur from Bandar Bukit Raja, Klang.
After completing the EEP, she diversified her product offerings, secured larger catering contracts and hired a full-time staff member, all while caring for her husband, a lymphoma patient.
Her monthly income had since increased by 900%, she said at an EEP event in Kuala Lumpur.
“Before this programme, I never had the courage to take on large catering orders or grow beyond my comfort zone.
“Through the guidance and support provided, I gained the confidence to rebuild not just my business, but myself.
“Today, I have expanded my products, hired staff and reached new markets,” she added.
Meanwhile, SDP’s Volunteers Programme saw 733 individuals contribute close to 3,000 hours of service to local communities.
Its Fabric Recycling Movement Campaign saw 81,640kg of unwanted fabric collected, supporting circular economy practices by diverting textile waste from landfills and encouraging responsible consumption.
The group’s Back-To-School programme supported 894 students from 10 schools across Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Negri Sembilan, SDP said.
Youth leadership was further encouraged through collaboration with Selangor Rugby Union, engaging 130 students from nine schools in Petaling Perdana and fostering discipline, teamwork and confidence.
Cultural appreciation was also nurtured through dance workshops at SK Setapak Indah and SK Putra Heights 2, where over 540 students were introduced to traditional Malay dance zapin.
Led by 24 trainers, the workshops provided students with an immersive learning experience that complemented holistic student development.
SDP also held “Hooked on Biodiversity: Invasive Fish Out, Native Species In”, an initiative that saw 24 volunteers participating in efforts to restore ecological balance to local water bodies, supporting the group’s broader urban biodiversity agenda.
Meanwhile, SDP’s “Let’s Protect Our Earth” recycling drives reinforced public awareness about responsible consumption and waste management.
At KL East Mall, volunteers diverted 38kg of used cooking oil and 83kg of recyclable materials from landfills.
In Ara Damansara, 200kg of unwanted fabric, 250kg of electronic waste, 300kg of paper, 31kg of plastic, 22kg of steel and 31kg of used cooking oil were collected and channelled to recycling partners.
