Cassava Chips entrepreneur’s success story

26 February 2025

KOTA KINABALU:  Jalinah Jahari is the founder of Yuly Global International Sdn Berhad, a thriving enterprise that specialises in cassava chips. This remarkable journey began in Kota Marudu, where she initially found herself as a housewife without a formal job. Driven by a desire to generate her own income, she launched her cassava chips venture in 2017.

Starting from humble beginnings, she collected cassava from her garden, carefully preparing the roots by cutting, frying, and packaging them herself. It was no easy task, but her unwavering belief in her potential for success, combined with a healthy dose of perseverance, kept her motivated. She initially ventured into the local markets, selling her freshly prepared chips from one stall to another, gradually making a name for herself within the community.

Each market visit was not merely an opportunity to sell her product; it was a chance to connect with customers, gather feedback, and refine her recipes. In a world where challenges often loom large, Jalinah's dedication and hard work began to yield results, setting the stage for what would become a flourishing business.

“We engaged with several agencies, one of which was the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA), who provided invaluable support with our marketing efforts. Additionally, I sought guidance from various mentors, some of whom were appointed by the government, while others I discovered independently. From the knowledge we acquired, we learnt how to develop effective strategies to grow our business,” she shared.

"From that point onwards, we began promoting our products in every mall, despite not having a shop of our own at the time. Initially, I sold from my car boot, personally managing the frying and packaging of the cassava chips. Our commitment to support others was always at the forefront of our efforts; the products we created not only benefited us but also provided crucial assistance to local cassava farmers struggling to make ends meet.”

“Previously, these farmers had limited options for selling their crops and often grew cassava solely for their own consumption. However, through our initiative, they have discovered a viable market for their produce. Now, they sell their cassava to us, opening up new avenues for extra income and improved livelihoods. It's a rewarding cycle that empowers both our business and the farming community. While we used to source our cassava from our own plantations, as we grew, we began sourcing from farmers in Kota Marudu, Ranau, and Tambunan for our supplies.”

Initially, her warehouse was located at home. However, as her business grew and her income improved, she rented a space in Kota Kinabalu, securing a warehouse at Warisan Square. Shortly after, she opened another branch in Imago.

“This expansion significantly raised awareness of the Yuly brand, and we now proudly operate six branches, which include locations at Imago, ITCC, Kolombong, Karamunsing, Centre Point, and City Mall.”

“At Complex Kilang SME Bank Lok Kawi, we have two factory lots: Lot One and Lot Five. Our growth has been buoyed by customers who appreciate our locally inspired flavours—not just locals, but also visitors from outside Sabah.”

“We have innovated our Yuly product to make it softer yet crunchier than other chips, ensuring that even children can enjoy it,” she explained.

“Our vision for the next five years is to position Yuly as a leading brand in the marketing of agricultural products while supporting farmers. I believe Yuly will not only thrive in Malaysia but also expand to an international level. We are already marketing our chips in Dubai, Turkey, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Brunei. This growth undeniably creates numerous job and business opportunities.”

She is also actively promoting her products on TikTok and Facebook, with her daughter occasionally stepping in as a host.

Recently, the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperative, Datuk Ewon Benedick, visited the complex and toured her factory. She was both delighted and deeply moved by the visit, expressing that it served as a significant source of encouragement for her.

"We are proud to have a Minister who personally took the time to visit us. It provides us with the encouragement we need to thrive and contribute to the country’s economic landscape."