A tough Raya, a livestream and a fresh start with banana chips

Muhammad Akram Shairi and Siti Farhana Masud Hayati, a married couple from Sabak Bernam, started their journey towards a food business during the challenging period following their clothing venture's financial woes. They had nearly RM400,000 in losses and at times, barely RM60 in their pockets, causing them to avoid relatives during Ramadan. To avoid this embarrassment, they resorted to pretending to be busy frying chips in the backyard, thus giving them a reason for their relatives to not ask for raya money.

In an unexpected turn of events, a TikTok livestream led to an order for 30kg of banana chips. This order doubled the next day, prompting the couple to hire an additional worker to help with frying. This marked the beginning of their new venture, Nekyahh Kerepek, which now processes around 200kg of bananas daily and employs 14 individuals ranging from 24 to 66 years old. Half of these workers contribute to production, while the rest handle office work and administration.

Farhana, the older worker, highlights the significance of the experienced workers in the process, as they share their methods of preparing chips and sambal with the couple. Many of the older employees also appreciate the social aspect of working together, as they get to meet friends and chat during their free time. Akram, 32, emphasizes that employing older residents and single mothers provides them with a less strenuous means of income. This social dimension of the workplace has become a crucial aspect of the business.

Despite the success of Nekyahh Kerepek, the couple remains cautious in their approach to growth, keeping in mind their previous venture's pitfalls. The price of banana supplies has been a major challenge, with prices reaching up to RM7 per kg. To mitigate this risk, they have planted over 2,000 banana seedlings in Kampung Gajah, Perak, seeking a more stable supply. The plantation also aims to support the business's stability for those who now depend on it for work.

The couple's journey with Nekyahh Kerepek is markedly different from their previous attempt, with a greater focus on gradual growth and sustainability. This newfound stability during a low point in their lives has become their most valuable lesson, positioning their business for long-term success.