ARAU, April 3 (Bernama) -- Even a certificate holder from a community college can obtain a five-figure income a month.

Muhammad Firdaus Abdul Rahman, 30, stood on his own two feet by opening a shop to repair computers and electronic items in the rural area.

He started his business in Beseri in 2011 and currently had another shop in Simpang Ampat.

Muhammad Firdaus, had a certificate from the National Youth Skills Institute in mechanical technology (audio and video) in 2006. He then studied for two years at the Arau Community College for a certificate in computer and support.

After completing his practical training at a computer shop in Kangar in 2010, Muhammad Firdaus said he was offered a job with a salary of RM1,500 a month.

“I repaired computers in my spare time. But I tightened my belt to save money in the seven-month I worked in Kangar in my desire to open a computer shop,’’ he said.

Initially, Muhammad Firdaus said he found it hard to start his business because the bank did not approve his application for a loan.

‘’I sought counsel from friends and conducted a study before approaching the National Entrepreneurial Group Economic Fund (TEKUN National) for a loan. Thank god, TEKUN National approved a loan of RM10,000. I used the money to set up the first computer shop in Taman Melati, Berseri,’’ he said.

He said he opted to open a shop in the rural area due to the dearth of such shops to meet the need of the community especially youths so they did not have to go to towns to get the services concerned.

Despite earning a five-figure income, he said was adamant about the need to prioritise customer satisfaction and was thankful at the encouraging response.

-- BERNAMA