28/04/2026

TUESDAY | APR 28, 2026

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Crafting success, one piece at a time

o Woman entrepreneur breaks barriers in woodworking, building thriving furniture business from ground up in Kedah

participation in Jade Camp 2026 helped build independence and adaptability in facing challenges. “On the first and second days, it rained and our tents got wet. We learned to be independent in solving problems and I also made many new friends from this camp.” Throughout Jade Camp 2026, participants were also involved in various activities, including leadership and sustainability badge programmes, group challenges and modules related to the Sustainable Development Goals, such as climate action and quality education. – Bernama “Arched designs feel softer and more refined. They’re also timeless and versatile, fitting well with both modern and minimalist interiors. Many customers prefer them because they look neat and unique. “Each order is tailored to the customer’s needs, whether in size, colour or layout. Some clients come with their own ideas, and we help bring them to life in a way that suits their living space,” she said, adding that arched-style TV and storage cabinets are among the products that are high in demand. Reflecting on their challenges, Nurul Syifa’ said she has had to overcome societal perceptions about women in woodworking, as well as the physically demanding nature of the job. “In the beginning, some people doubted my abilities because this field is usually dominated by men. The work is physically demanding and there were times I felt exhausted and close to giving up. “But I see those moments as challenges that push me to keep learning and improving. My children are also my source of strength – they motivate me to keep going. “I also want to prove that women can succeed in this field when given the opportunity.”

KUALA LUMPUR: In a field dominated by men, a young woman is proving her mettle by building a furniture business of her own. She even has a factory now located in Tanjung Dawai, Kedah. For 31-year-old Nurul Syifa’ Ahmad Zohri, carpentry is more than a hobby; it is the foundation of a journey she shares with her husband Mohd Izuwan Mat Rabi, also 31, since they began their furniture business in 2018. The couple initially ran their business, Izuwan Furniture Skills Enterprise, in Banting, Selangor, before deciding to relocate to Mohd Izuwan’s kampung in Tanjung Dawai in 2021 due to challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. Nurul Syifa’ said she and her husband embarked on their furniture business in Banting after she completed a short course conducted by the Malaysian Timber Industry Board. “Back then, we rented a small

workshop and relied on basic tools, taking on small projects that helped us gain valuable experience. “When the pandemic hit, we had to rethink how to continue, especially with restrictions affecting operations. So we decided to return to Kedah and start from scratch, gradually building our own factory using our savings of nearly RM100,000,” she said in an interview with Bernama recently. Nurul Syifa’ said the factory stands on what was once forest land. Completed in 2022, the facility spans approximately 3,200 square feet (297 square metres). A mother of two, she said the business, which began on a modest scale, has since expanded with the support of three employees and the use of advanced machinery such as a sliding table saw and edging machines, producing around three to four pieces of furniture daily. Notably, the Universiti Malaysia Perlis graduate, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical

Nurul Syifa’ said their furniture business began in 2018 after she completed a short course conducted by the Malaysian Timber Industry Board. – BERNAMAPIC

craft furniture independently.” Their business focuses on custom-made furniture such as TV cabinets, wardrobes and kitchen cabinets, alongside ready-to assemble items like storage cabinets that are more affordable. One of their signature design elements is the use of arches, featuring soft curves that lend an elegant and contemporary touch to their products.

Engineering Technology, is hands-on in every aspect of production, from operating machinery to designing, finishing and executing intricate wood joining techniques such as mortising that require precision and skill. “After I developed a foundation in woodworking, I honed my skills through projects, as well as guidance from my husband. That gave me the confidence to operate machines and

M’sia’s Girl Guides make history with Jade Camp 2026 KUALA LUMPUR: The Girl Guides Association of Malaysia has etched its name in the record books, with Jade Camp 2026 setting a double Asean and Asia record during its 110th anniversary celebration at Stadium Merdeka on Sunday. “The three-day camp, from April 24 to 26, brought together more than 2,000 Girl Guides from across the country, spanning various levels including Kelip-kelip , Tunas, Remaja , Renjer and Klover as well as leaders,” she told reporters yesterday after the programme’s closing ceremony. members nationwide. This success is the result of continuous commitment to empowering young women.” Yeoh said the selection of Stadium Merdeka as the venue, with Merdeka 118, the world’s second-tallest building as its backdrop, symbolised the high aspirations of Girl Guides members. campsite, but a platform for shaping character, leadership and the identity of the younger generation. Throughout the programme, participants had the opportunity to hone their leadership skills, strengthen self-discipline and

cultivate teamwork, and resilience through various planned activities.” Izwan added that the values instilled not only produce outstanding Girl Guides but also prepare them as future leaders of the nation. One of the participants, Aleesya Dania Mohd Hairie, 16, said her

Association chief commissioner Datuk Yeoh Soo Keng said the large scale gathering achieved recognition for the Largest Girl Guide Camp and Grand March-In Ceremony at a stadium alongside the world’s second tallest building for a 110-year celebration, elevating Malaysia’s name on the regional and international stage.

Meanwhile, Permodalan Nasional Berhad Merdeka Ventures CEO Datuk Izwan Hasli Mohd Ibrahim said the successful organisation of such a large-scale programme reflects unity, leadership and extraordinary spirit of the Girl Guides at all levels. “Jade Camp is not merely a

She said the achievement was a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and the association’s role in shaping women’s leadership since its establishment in 1916. “From just eight members when it was founded in Kuala Lumpur, the association now has more than 100,000

Education retains its importance in the Malaysian landscape for parents, students and stakeholders. The changes are fast paced with new developments in new fields of study such as cybersecurity, data protection, augmented and virtual reality, machine learning in education, digital education and artificial Intelligence. Leading the way are universities, who are invited to showcase their latest programmes, curriculum and content in our Education Focus for 2026.

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