Jerung Wheels: How One's Love For E-Scooters Turned Into A Business
Jerung Wheels started in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 02 Oct 2024, 05:06 PM
In recent years, Malaysia has witnessed a transformation on its streets. Electric scooters, once a niche hobby for enthusiasts, have become a common sight
At the forefront of this burgeoning trend is Jerung Wheels, founded by Mubashar Aftab and his two partners, Mohd Asri Ghazwan and Zuhaire Tajal Ariffen.
What began as a passion project in 2020 has blossomed into a thriving business dedicated to promoting eco-friendly transport solutions.
"We started out as hobbyists, unaware that our love for electric scooters would lead to the creation of a full-fledged company," Mubashar, a web developer by trade, reflects on the serendipitous beginnings of Jerung Wheels.
It was 2019 when the first signs of a micromobility revolution began to stir in Malaysia, with communities of e-scooter enthusiasts emerging almost overnight.
"In just a few months, we saw more e-scooters on the streets than ever before," Mubashar recalls. "It became clear that the country needed high-quality electric transportation options."
Mubashar and his friends launched Jerung Wheels amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time that posed unprecedented challenges for new businesses
"It was a tough time to start," Mubashar admits. "With the economy in turmoil, we were concerned, but we believed in our vision. We pooled our life savings together and took the leap."
As they navigated the uncertainties of the pandemic, Jerung Wheels focused on one guiding principle: sustainability.
"Our aim was to promote eco-friendly transportation that also embodies adventure," Mubashar explains to SAYS.
The humid streets of Selangor became the backdrop for their mission, as they worked tirelessly to establish a local hub for portable electric vehicles.
The struggles of starting a business during a pandemic were daunting.
"Hundreds of thousands were losing their jobs, and many businesses shut down," he reflects. "But we were determined to adapt and contribute to the economy."
They opted for a random name, Jerung Wheels (Shark Wheels) which they quickly grew fond of. Mubashar quipped that sharks are quick, agile, and powerful — traits that align well with the idea of e-scooters as efficient and dynamic modes of transport.
Through sheer determination and a little bit of hope, Jerung Wheels began to take shape, gradually attracting attention from both riders and regulators alike.
Fast forward 2024, Jerung Wheels now is powered by a community of e-scooter lovers
Mubashar and his co-founders aimed to create a space where enthusiasts could gather, share experiences, and promote the benefits of micromobility.
"We wanted to foster a culture around e-scooters, bringing people together who shared our passion," he shares, adding that his shop sells e-scooters of various models and brands including Kaabo, Vsett, HX, 5th Wheel alongside merchandise and accessories.
Their efforts have paid off, as the local scene for electric scooters continues to grow and Jerung Wheels has two outlets, one in Dengkil in Selangor and the other on Jalan Pudu, Kuala Lumpur. It also has an online shop.
"We’ve seen a significant increase in interest," he notes. "People are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their transport choices, and scooters provide a viable solution."
Despite the enthusiasm, challenges remain. The regulatory landscape for micromobility is still evolving, and safety concerns are paramount.
Mubashar is currently in touch with the government to advocate for better infrastructure and regulations to ensure that e-scooter riders and pedestrians can feel safe.
"It’s essential that we work with local authorities to create designated lanes and safe riding conditions," the entrepreneur said, adding that he believes that micromobility can alleviate urban congestion.
"Imagine if more people chose scooters over cars," he suggests. "It could drastically reduce traffic and pollution, making our cities cleaner and more enjoyable."
With the pandemic easing and life returning to normal, Jerung Wheels is poised for growth
"We’re optimistic about the future," Mubashar asserts. "We’ve weathered the storm, and now it’s time to expand our offerings."
Their vision extends beyond just selling scooters; it encompasses a commitment to education and customer service.
"We want our customers to have the best experience possible," he insists. "That means providing not only quality products but also the knowledge to maintain and enjoy them."
As Jerung Wheels continues to carve out its niche in the micromobility landscape, the team remains focused on sustainability and community.
"We hope that one day, when we look back on this journey, we can smile knowing that we made a difference," Mubashar smiled.
