MIRI: Applications are now open for the Usahawan Makanan Miri (UMAMI) programme 2025, a 10-week food business incubator aimed at transforming the culinary talents of the B40 community into viable small businesses.
Organised by SAGO Group with support from the Hong Leong Foundation, the UMAMI programme is tailored for aspiring food entrepreneurs — from home-based kek lapis makers to kampung caterers — looking to formalise and scale their operations.
Miri Mayor Adam Yii, who officiated the programme’s 2025 launch, described UMAMI as “a platform that gives people dignity through work, culture and creativity,” adding that it supports the city’s development goals outlined in the Miri Smart City Blueprint and the Greater Miri Development Masterplan.
“Through thoughtful, structured programmes like UMAMI, they are nurturing talent, building confidence, and helping to shape Miri into a city of opportunity, resilience, and innovation,” he said during a press conference recently.
Participants will undergo training in business fundamentals, marketing, digital branding and operations, and receive mentorship from industry professionals.
They will also participate in real-world food events, with continued support from an established peer and alumni network.
UMAMI’s 2024 cohort recorded a 100 per cent graduation rate, generating RM136,218 in collective revenue within six months.
The six participants also co-catered a 3,500-pax Chinese New Year Open House, with individual earnings averaging RM8,000.
In the meantime, SAGO Group Director Arif Abdul Rahman said the course is not just a training course but a journey of confidence and community.
“We’ve seen participants come in unsure whether their food has value, and they leave ready to build something of their own,” he said.
Yii urged cultural organisations, businesses, and government agencies to support UMAMI by offering venues, market access, technical support, or sponsorships.
“To the business community, cultural organisations, and government agencies — this is your chance to shape Miri’s future from the ground up,” he said.
UMAMI 2025 is open to aspiring F&B entrepreneurs from underserved or low-income backgrounds residing in Miri.
Applications are open until Aug 13. Interested individuals may visit sagoinc.my for more information.
