Biji-biji Initiative is implementing a skills training and job placement program that prepares low-income Malaysian youth for higher-income sales careers, fostering economic mobility and serving as a model for youth development programs across Malaysia.
Biji-biji Initiative works to make meaningful education and economic opportunity more accessible to underserved communities in Malaysia. Grounded in the belief that systemic change happens when people are given the tools, skills, and confidence to shape their own futures, the organization designs practical, contextually relevant, and dignity-centered learning experiences at the intersection of innovation and social impact. From youth employability to women’s leadership and AI literacy, Biji-biji’s work is driven by one core conviction: potential is everywhere, but opportunity is not.
With support from the Citi Foundation, Biji-biji is leading NextGen Sellers, a work-based program that tackles youth unemployment among Malaysia’s B40 communities by helping young people ages 18 to 24 build real career momentum. Participants earn while they learn, spending four days a week in paid sales roles and one day in structured training—removing the financial barrier of full-time study while developing skills in sales, English communication, and financial literacy. Over six months, the program helps young people become not only job-ready, but career-aware, financially confident, and connected to mentors and peers—creating ripple effects that extend well beyond the individual to families and communities.