By Joann Elvira Sitorus, Community Kitchen Project Lead, Good Shepherd Services, Malaysia (Province of Singapor-Malaysia)
Launched on 7 March 2025, the Community Kitchen project, run by Good Shepherd Services, is more than just a training space. It is a beacon of hope for 20 women from low-income communities in Kota Kinabalu. Carefully planned since January, the initiative was developed in response to the needs observed among women in nearby villages such as Kg. Suang Parai, Pulau Penampang, and Menggatal. These areas are just minutes from the city, yet worlds apart in opportunity.
Many of the women, aged between 39 and 63, have spent their lives in the shadows of financial dependence, raising families in cramped homes with little to no personal income. Early marriage, limited education, and scarce employment options have left them feeling invisible and stuck. While some tried to earn a small income through selling food or running small online ventures, their efforts rarely translated into long-term stability.
The Community Kitchen project was created to change that. Through structured training in food handling, cooking, baking, and kitchen management, the women are now learning how to turn their everyday skills into viable food businesses. They have rolled up their sleeves for biscuit-making, catered meals, and explored the basics of entrepreneurship, all in a supportive and empowering environment.
This is not just about income. It is about reclaiming dignity. It is about equipping women with the tools and confidence to break free from the cycle of poverty, to contribute meaningfully to their families, and to stand tall in their own right. Every meal they prepare carries more than flavour. It carries purpose, pride, and the promise of a better tomorrow.
As an emerging project lead for this initiative, I was initially hesitant to take on the role. Being new to project-based work, I questioned whether I was ready. But over time, that fear gave way to courage. Watching the women bring such joy, laughter, and warmth to each cooking and baking session changed something in me. Their energy, their resilience, and the way they supported each other was deeply moving.
Some of the women brought their children along, either because the children were waiting to go to school or because there was no one else to care for them at home. Even with these added responsibilities, they showed up fully focused, eager, and committed. It reminded me of the quiet power women carry. Juggling motherhood and learning, they managed it all with grace, determination, and an unwavering desire to grow. They inspired me more than they know, and I carry that inspiration with me every day.
As the women recently completed 14 lessons on baking bread and making local and western pastries, they shared their experiences with us. Here is what they expressed:
“After all the bread-making lessons I learned, I challenged myself to try them again at home. I managed to bake all the recipes just as well as we did in class. I felt immense joy and contentment seeing my husband and children enjoy what I made. Their reactions mean the world to me, and it truly fills my heart.” – Nailih
“As someone who never had formal training in baking, I feel so privileged to be a part of this Community Kitchen. I deeply appreciate the sisterhood we built and the volunteers who are so committed to guiding us. I never imagined that, at this age, I would have the opportunity to join classes and improve my baking and cooking skills. This is everything I ever wanted. Thank you so much.” – Mary
“I joined the Community Kitchen to improve my cooking skills, especially in making healthier meals, and to learn alongside others who share the same passion. Initially, I was approached to help spread the word about the programme. I did not expect to be part of it myself, but the more I learned, the more I wanted to join. I have enjoyed every session so far learning to make healthy bread has been exciting, but it is the friendships and shared laughter that truly stand out. Being appointed chairperson was unexpected, and I felt uncertain at first. But I am open to learning and, with the support around me, I hope to grow into the role and contribute meaningfully to this community.” – Aren
I feel deeply grateful that I had the chance to witness something so meaningful. Sharing the same passion with these women has not only equipped me with skills but also nurtured in me a heart full of love and gratitude. Though this project has only just begun, I believe that with the support of my team and by walking alongside the women, we will see a beautiful journey unfold, one where they bloom into the individuals they aspire to be.
I am especially thankful to the funders and volunteers who believed in this vision. Their generosity and commitment, especially those who helped source donors, made all of this possible. Words cannot fully express how honoured I am to be part of this initiative.
“Gratitude is the memory of the heart.” – St. Mary Euphrasia
Learn more about Good Shepherd Services in Malaysia here.
