The journey of a delivery rider often begins with a single order, but what about the journey toward retirement? In Sarawak, that question is now taking centre stage as foodpanda Malaysia and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) bring From Ride to Retire directly to the state’s delivery partners.
From Ride To Retire Expands To Sarawak
Launched in Kuching on 9 February 2026, From Ride to Retire marks a significant step in supporting gig workers beyond their daily earnings. Through this collaboration, 400 top-performing foodpanda delivery partners across Sarawak are receiving structured retirement and financial education, a first-of-its-kind initiative dedicated specifically to riders in the state.
The programme is part of foodpanda’s panda hearts welfare initiative, reinforcing the company’s commitment to looking after its delivery partners not just in the present, but for the long term.
Shubham Saran, Director of Operations at foodpanda Malaysia, emphasised that delivery partners are integral to the company’s ecosystem. He shared that From Ride to Retire reflects foodpanda’s commitment to ensuring riders nationwide are supported not only through earning opportunities, but also by building financial confidence and long-term security.
On-the-Ground Financial Education Across Four Cities
Unlike typical financial campaigns, From Ride to Retire is designed to meet riders where they are… literally. From 9 to 13 February, EPF regional officers are conducting advisory and briefing sessions in Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri.
These sessions focus on practical, relatable topics for gig workers, including:
- How to make voluntary EPF contributions
- Understanding the long-term benefits of retirement savings
- Building sustainable saving habits
- Leveraging the i-Saraan scheme for structured retirement planning
The initiative builds on foodpanda’s ongoing collaboration with the EPF Sarawak Region. The launch was formalised through a signing ceremony at the EPF Kuching Headquarters, marking the state’s first dedicated programme of this nature for delivery riders.
Encouraging Voluntary EPF Contributions Through i-Saraan
EPF Sarawak Regional Director Aminuddin Abdul Aziz highlighted the importance of gig workers in expanding access to retirement savings. He encouraged riders to start saving in a structured way through i-Saraan, a voluntary contribution scheme designed for the self-employed.
According to Aminuddin, even small, consistent contributions can make a meaningful difference over time. By starting early and contributing regularly, riders can gradually build a secure retirement fund.
This is the core message behind From Ride to Retire: making long-term financial preparedness achievable and relevant to the daily realities of gig workers.
Building Community And Engagement
Beyond retirement planning, the programme also serves as a vital engagement platform between foodpanda and its delivery partners. Riders are given opportunities to network, attend briefings and participate in appreciation activities, particularly important in areas where physical engagement touchpoints have previously been limited.
foodpanda has indicated plans to expand From Ride to Retire to Sabah and other cities across East Malaysia, signalling a broader commitment to rider welfare nationwide.
