YKAB launches social empowerment hub in Kuching

BT
Jul 1
3 min read

KUCHING, 1 July 2025 – Yayasan Kepimpinan Al Bait (YKAB) officially launched its YKABarber and Al Bait Coffee (ABC) on June 29 at Riveredge Commercial Centre here. These two new spaces are designed to serve customers and uplift the local Asnaf community (those who are eligible to receive zakat) through skill-building and entrepreneurship.

Gracing the ceremony was YKAB Chairman, Datu Haji Abang Mohd Shibli Bin Haji Abang Mohd Nailie, who officiated the launch. Also present were Ustaz K.H. Luqmanulhakim of Masjid Kapal Munzalan, Pontianak, Indonesia; YKAB Board of Trustees Member, Muhd Zairil Zaini (Assistant Vice President 1, UDA Land (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd); Abdul Hafiz Bin Zainalabidin (Manager of YKAB); Ustaz Haji Mohd Yusree Bin Haji Mohd Zain (Head of Operations Sector, TBS); and Nazri Bin Madon (General Manager of Bela Sempurna Sdn Bhd).

YKABarber began with the Akademi Latihan Insan (ALI), a programme by Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak (TBS) that offered a two-day basic haircutting course to underprivileged individuals, particularly those from the Asnaf community facing poverty and hardship.

Participants who showed strong potential were invited to join the YKABPRENEUR project, a stepping stone designed to turn skill into opportunity. Through this platform, they were given a chance to build financial independence and dignity through something as seemingly simple as a pair of scissors.

Through YKABPRENEUR, haircutting services were first introduced in August 2024 during the Majma’ Merdeka Sales at Majma’ Mall. The positive public response and success at that debut, along with subsequent appearances at events like the UDA Carnival and RTM Drive-Thru, inspired YKAB to establish a permanent YKABarber outlet, designed as a structured six-month practical training centre for aspiring barbers from the Asnaf community.

Today, that vision took shape in bricks and mortar. Six Asnaf entrepreneurs, now part of the YKABPRENEUR network, will begin a six-month hands-on training programme under the guidance of skilled mentors at YKABarber. With haircut services starting at just RM10 for children, students and seniors, and RM15–RM20 for adults, the shop offers affordability without compromising quality. Additional grooming services like beard trims, hair treatments, and hot towel shaves complete the experience.

Al Bait Coffee, which is set inside the same space, welcomes everyone with the comforting aroma of coffee and community. With 11 beverage options ranging from iced lattes to non-caffeinated delights, and prices starting at just RM5.90, ABC is an ideal coffee corner for conversations and connection.

The YKABPRENEUR Shelf, also unveiled on the same day, showcases products crafted by former ALI programme participants and current Asnaf entrepreneurs. The shelf will also appear in select cafés around Kuching, which will boost visibility and increase income potential for these budding business owners.

Meanwhile, the official launch of YKABarber and Al Bait Coffee included the handing over of business keys and official name tags to trainees, among other things. In the spirit of giving, 10 children from Asnaf families also received complimentary haircuts and refreshments during the launching event, and attendees were gifted vouchers to return for more services between now and July 31.

The operations of YKABarber are supported by volunteers from Yayasan Kepimpinan Al Bait (SYKAB), who take turns serving on a rotational basis. YKAB warmly welcomes members of the public to join SYKAB and be part of the meaningful programmes they organise. Those interested can register by contacting Wirrmeezy at 011-1667 8233.

For more information about YKAB’s programmes and activities, follow them on their social media platforms:

Instagram: yayasanalbait | ykabarber.official | albaitcoffee.my