Many Malaysians have taken on second or even third jobs to make ends meet, and in today’s economy, having side gigs or businesses has become the norm.

Minister of Economy Rafizi Ramli recently shared a video on his X account highlighting the success of a local woman, Wan Asikin, who runs a vending machine business. Her monthly net income now ranges from RM7,000 to RM8,000.

Rafizi noted that Wan Asikin is among the top earners in the INSAN IPR vending machine program, generating an impressive monthly income between RM13,000 and RM21,000.

For those unfamiliar, the government launched the People's Income Initiative (IPR) to create income opportunities and improve the financial well-being of the B40 group, aiming to reduce poverty.

Wan Asikin started her vending machine business in October 2023, and according to Rafizi, her success has been remarkable. Her machine, located at the Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Kelantan branch, has already brought in earnings of RM120,000 to RM130,000.

Rafizi shared that Wan Asikin’s financial struggles have eased significantly. "She used to struggle to afford her children's necessities, but now she’s even managed to renovate her kitchen," he said.

Wan Asikin sells a range of food and drinks, including sandwiches, rice dishes, and canned beverages. She remarked that students no longer have to travel far for food, as the vending machine provides convenient, affordable meals right on campus.

Reflecting on her past, she said, “I used to earn just RM300 to RM500 per month selling snacks like curry puffs and mini spring rolls online.”

With four boys to care for, she emphasized how transformative the vending machine business has been for her as a member of the B40 income group. "It has made a huge difference in my life," she said.

At the end of the video, Wan Asikin expressed her gratitude to both the government and UiTM for giving her the chance to grow her business and improve her family’s situation.