A Journey of Empowerment and Growth
For over five decades, Maggi has been a trusted name in Malaysian households, not only for its delicious products but also for its commitment to community development. As part of this ongoing journey, the "Wanita Cukup Berani" (WCB) initiative has taken on a new dimension, entering its fourth year with a renewed focus on empowering women through food, mentorship, and digital learning.
The WCB programme, which is rooted in the campaign's core message of "Tak Kenal Tak Cinta" (No Knowledge, No Love), has already made a significant impact by empowering more than 4,000 women since its inception. With ambitious goals set for 2026, Maggi aims to reach 10,000 participants and nurture at least 20 new food entrepreneurs.
Expanding Reach and Impact
The launch of WCB 2025 in Petaling Jaya marked an important milestone, celebrating not just the program's achievements but also Maggi's transformation from a kitchen staple to a true empowerment partner. Ivy Tan, Maggi Malaysia and Singapore business executive officer, emphasized the deep connection between food and empowerment.
"Good food and cooking have always been at the heart of Maggi’s story," said Tan. "Food is never just food; it’s a love that strengthens families, a form of creativity, and even a pathway to income."
Through WCB, many women have discovered courage, self-worth, and confidence that extend far beyond the kitchen. This year, the initiative plans to award grants of RM5,000 each to at least 20 participants, providing them with the support needed to kickstart their ventures. These grants will be accompanied by guidance from WCB mentors and alumni, ensuring a strong foundation for success.
A Diverse Curriculum for All
This year’s WCB programme will feature both online and physical learning modules, making it more accessible for women from all walks of life. The curriculum includes a range of topics designed to equip participants with essential skills:
- Entrepreneurship and Financial Management – Led by entrepreneur Anne Idris
- Personal Branding and Confidence-Building – Taught by Alleena Abdullah
- Healthy Cooking and Nutrition – Delivered by local TV host and chef Muhammad Naim Ramli
- Digital and Social Media Training – In collaboration with Google and TikTok
These partnerships highlight how empowerment extends beyond culinary skills, equipping women to become entrepreneurs, digital creators, and community role models.
Expanding Access and Opportunities
Tan mentioned that the past three seasons of WCB reached 4,500 women through blended learning. This new digital format allows the programme to scale up further, giving more women the confidence to take their first step into entrepreneurship.
Participants can register online for free, complete the learning modules, and submit a business plan to qualify for grants and mentorship opportunities. This streamlined process ensures that more women can benefit from the programme regardless of their location or background.
Government and Private Sector Collaboration
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri commended Maggi for aligning with national goals of empowering women and improving digital literacy. Her speech, delivered by Women’s Development Department deputy director-general Dr Faridah Awang, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and community.
"Real change happens when the government, private sector, and community walk hand in hand," she said. "Programmes like WCB show that when women gain the confidence to try something new, they transform not just their lives but also the lives of those around them."
A Shared Vision for the Future
Juan Aranols, Nestle Malaysia chief executive officer, emphasized that the WCB programme reflects the company’s purpose of enhancing quality of life and contributing to a more sustainable future. He added that WCB is an example of Nestle's belief in action—empowering women through food, mentorship, and opportunity.
As the programme enters its fourth season, Tan noted that the growing alumni network will play an even bigger role in supporting new participants. This continued growth and support ensure that WCB remains a powerful force in shaping the future of women in Malaysia.