The 2004 tsunami had shattered most of small entreprises in Ujong Muloh, including two small sewing and embroidery business that, according to survivors, had been both busy and profitable. Before the tsunami, the seamstresses of Ujung Muloh had been known throughout the neighboring villages for the quality of their products. Sadly, the women who had run these business died during the tsunami and none of the surviving women possessed the handicraft skills to fill the gap that they left behind.

The loss of this small industry was overlooked by large NGO's which in their rush to rebuild tended to provide aid in the form of boats, agricultural equipment, fish nets, etc. inadvertently supporting men and overlooking the important economic role of women in community.

Torn by armed conflict and the tsunami, the women and children were excited by the concept of a reading centre for the children. Later on, the women were interested in learning sewing and embroidery skills.

SSGF funding supported development of alternative business opportunities for women.