Dapur Kita-Kita: Kota Kinabalu's First Community Soup Kitchen

Launched on December 16, 2024, Dapur Kita-Kita proudly stands as Kota Kinabalu’s first community soup kitchen, dedicated to addressing food insecurity among urban workers and underserved communities. Spearheaded by Jetsin Sdn Bhd Managing Director Datuk Koh Chung Jade, this initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Sabah Chefs Association, Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), and partners like the Rotary Club Kota Kinabalu, Good Shepherd Services, Consumers Front of Sabah (CFOS), Happy Place, and LifeWater Berhad.

Located in Bandaran Berjaya, Dapur Kita-Kita operates from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (closed on Sundays and public holidays), with Free Meal Collection available from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The kitchen distributes up to 200 nutritious meal packs daily, each valued at approximately RM15. Meals are thoughtfully prepared by experienced chefs and volunteers, emphasizing quality and variety, including dishes with crabsticks, meats, and vegetables. The program specifically supports low-income urban workers, who often struggle to afford nutritious meals while supporting families in their hometowns.

Currently funded by Jetsin Sdn Bhd’s CSR program and Datuk Koh Chung Jade’s meat supply business, the initiative allocates RM1,000 to RM2,000 daily for operations. However, sustainability remains a priority, with organizers actively inviting NGOs and sponsors to collaborate in ensuring its continuity.

Dapur Kita-Kita reflects its commitment to inclusivity through Muslim-friendly meals and encourages participation from volunteers of all backgrounds. Beyond addressing daily hunger, the founders envision expanding the project into a central kitchen that supports NGOs across Sabah, tackling food insecurity beyond disaster relief efforts and fostering a stronger, more united community.