A Malaysian entrepreneur who once led his own food delivery platform and managed thousands of riders is now working as an independent food delivery rider after his business collapsed.
40-year-old Indera Aria Wee Jeeny said he came from a modest background but managed to build a food ordering and delivery platform that launched in October 2019.
At its peak, the company reportedly generated profits of up to RM6 million and had around 3,000 active riders operating across Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah.
Business downturn led to financial struggles
According to Indera, the company was once a strategic partner under the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). However, the business began facing difficulties in early 2021 after an internet protocol (IP) address was allegedly sold to a competitor by an individual for personal gain. He claimed the incident significantly affected operations, with profits dropping sharply to between RM40,000 and RM80,000 a month.
As the company continued to struggle, Indera said he was eventually forced to sell his assets to ensure employees continued receiving their salaries.
From running a company to searching for spare change
The father of two said the collapse turned his life upside down. There were times when he struggled to afford basic necessities and had to search for loose coins just to buy food. He also walked long distances because he no longer had access to transportation.
Indera admitted that one of the most painful parts of the experience was seeing people around him change after his financial situation worsened. He said some individuals who were once close to him began distancing themselves, believing he might ask them for financial help. Despite the disappointment, he eventually accepted what had happened and chose to focus on moving forward.
Indera said there were moments when he nearly gave up on rebuilding his life. However, he found inspiration from a former food rider who once told him how grateful he was despite earning only RM20 a day because it allowed him to buy food for his child. The conversation left a lasting impression on Indera and motivated him to keep pushing forward despite his challenges.
Now helping others while rebuilding his life
Today, Indera works as an independent food rider and also earns extra income by becoming a personal shopper, offering his services with a minimal fee ranging from RM5 to RM10. Despite facing financial difficulties himself, he said he continues looking for opportunities to help others whenever possible. While making deliveries, he often assists motorists dealing with issues such as flat tyres or dead batteries.
Having experienced hardship firsthand, Indera said he does not want others to feel abandoned during difficult times.
Determined to become an entrepreneur again
Looking back, Indera described the experience as a valuable lesson that changed his perspective on life.
Although his journey has been far from easy, he remains determined to rebuild his future and hopes to become a successful entrepreneur again one day. He also hopes to create more job opportunities and continue helping others as he works towards a fresh start.
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