KUALA LUMPUR: The country's largest expressway operator, PLUS Malaysia Bhd (PLUS), is committed to advancing the socioeconomic development of Bumiputera entrepreneurs.
As a subsidiary of UEM Group Bhd (UEM Group), PLUS does more than simply facilitate travel between cities; it also catalyses the aspirations of local entrepreneurs through its rest and service areas (RSA) as it embarks on a transformative initiative along the North-South Expressway (NSE).
UEM Group managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said these initiatives reflect the company's commitment, alongside parent company Khazanah Nasional Berhad, to fostering a competitive economy and contributing actively to the nation-building agenda.
"PLUS' RSAs have been strategically designed not just as places to rest and recharge but as springboards for Bumiputera entrepreneurs to reach thousands of potential customers.
"These entrepreneurs, who are local community members living within a 30km radius of each RSA along the highway, have managed to increase their income, expand their business and improve their economic wellbeing through the opportunities provided by PLUS."
PLUS managing director Datuk Nik Airina Nik Jaffar also emphasised the company's commitment to enhancing every journey by turning the RSA into platforms that link ambition with opportunity.
"Our vision is to transform these connectivity nodes into centres of commercial opportunity, where Bumiputera entrepreneurs can maximise their potential, connect to a broader market and ultimately earn a higher and more sustainable income."
PLUS is currently partnering with almost 500 local entrepreneurs across its 29 RSAs, 50 lay-bys, and four Overhead Bridge Restaurants (OBRs).
Many have seen notable growth, starting small and expanding their businesses.
Nik Airina added this reflects NSE's positive impact as an important and strategic transportation network to unlock business and socioeconomic opportunities.
Speaking to the New Straits Times, Khairul Aminur Rostam, 39, a food stall owner in Rawang's RSA, described his five-year business journey as a rollercoaster ride.
Despite the challenges, he expressed gratitude for the support provided by PLUS, emphasising its crucial role in his entrepreneurial endeavour.
"The business challenge here is its seasonal nature. During the school holiday season, the returns can be rewarding.
"However, during off-peak times, customer traffic tends to decrease without any special events. There are fluctuations in business, but conducting business here is still preferable to operating elsewhere."
Prior to opening his outlet at the Rawang RSA, Khairul used to operate his stall by the roadside before taking the leap to expand his business.
"When I discovered an available outlet here, I immediately saw it as a chance worth pursuing and submitted my application. To my surprise, it was successful.
"In the beginning, I only had one staff member assisting me here. But as I approach my fifth year of operation, I now employ six staff members."
He also shared that as a Bumiputera entrepreneur, he never anticipated the tremendous opportunities with PLUS. During festive seasons, he can earn up to RM5,000 in a day.
For Faizah@Rashidah Dahari, a 50-year-old briyani restaurant owner at the Pagoh RSA, her business endeavour to preserve Johor's iconic nasi beriani has flourished significantly, mainly attributable to the platform provided by PLUS.
She said the RSA played a pivotal role in rejuvenating the entrepreneurial spirit among Bumiputeras.
"Entrepreneurs like myself reap the benefits by attracting a diverse clientele across the state.
"Beyond the financial gains, I also relish the opportunity to introduce my culinary creations to a wider audience."
Faizah added that the additional benefits she derives from PLUS, besides the increased income resulting from expanding her business at the RSA, are provided through the PLUS Business Partner Incentive Programme (BPIP).
"The training courses provided under the BPIP have been instrumental in enhancing my business acumen. Transitioning from a village-based operation where exposure was limited, I was surprised by the wealth of knowledge offered.
"I've also undergone courses on financial management, food preparation, and halal compliance, all of which have contributed to my personal growth.
"I eagerly anticipate further opportunities for learning and development in the future."
PLUS offers training programmes in customer service, food safety, business management and technology adoption to help entrepreneurs compete better.
Meanwhile, Nurul Syuhada Mohammad Tarmezi, 36, said running a fruit stall at the Bukit Gantang lay-by was a life-changing experience for her.
Syuhada has been rooted at the Bukit Gantang layby for nine years, starting as a shop assistant before venturing into her own fruit shop business.
"The opportunities provided by PLUS have not only given me a fresh start but also provided an opportunity for me to share my blessings with others."
This is evident as Syuhada has successfully provided job opportunities to local residents by employing eight individuals to assist her in running the shop.
"I am thankful to PLUS for allowing me the chance to become a business partner here. It has enabled me to support the local community by purchasing locally grown fruits from them.
"Additionally, even my employees were given opportunities to upskill themselves through various courses and classes organised by PLUS."
Syuhada emphasised the invaluable support provided by PLUS in business management through continuous training and mentorship.
"I started from the bottom and there were a lot of things I needed to learn to kickstart my business. Without the guidance from PLUS, I wouldn't be where I am today.
"Once again, I am grateful to PLUS for all the support and assistance. Now, I am much better than I was nine years ago."