The Perak Women for Women Society (PWW) has launched a new empowerment initiative: a community-run book and cafe corner at the Perak Turf Club’s (PTC) Equestrian Centre in Ipoh.
The project offers women, particularly those from the B40 income group, a path to financial independence and confidence as they serve home-cooked meals in a green and tranquil setting.
PWW secretary and co-founder Yip Siew Keen said since operations began in March, the PWW Book and Cafe Corner is open four days a week – Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.(The cafe is closed on Ipoh race days, which is scheduled on some weekends.)
Guests enjoying their meals during a weekend at PWW cafe.
“Every Wednesday and Thursday, the cafe opens its doors for brunch from 11am to 1pm, while on weekends it is from 8.30am to 1pm,” she said when met at the cafe.
Yip said Thursday is particularly demanding, requiring an extra kitchen push to prepare a total of 100 servings.
“Sixty of these servings are sponsored food packets distributed to B40 families residing in the Taman Harmony Buntong flats and Kampung Tai Lee in Buntong.
“The remaining 40 servings are prepared for dine-in and takeaway customers.”
She said Thursday’s distribution, entirely sponsored by outsiders, has become a lifeline for many who depend on at least one warm, nutritious meal.
“A team of four women takes turns handling the preparation for this weekly commitment, with the income earned on operating days shared among all involved.
“The menu varies daily and dishes include nasi lemak, chicken curry, stir-fried cabbage, mee hoon as well as cakes and cookies for dessert,
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