Abstract: This paper aims to develop a conceptual business model called Kaleng, a sustainable smart meal subscription platform supported by a digital mobile application and a reusable lunchbox system. The solution addresses key challenges, pains, gains, and jobs-to-be-done of multiple customer segments, including consumers (students and working adults), food providers, and donors or sponsors. Current food consumption patterns in Malaysia reveal issues such as high daily food costs, unhealthy eating habits, decision fatigue, food waste, and limited transparency in donation channels. These challenges align with national priorities under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (13MP), MyDIGITAL, and the National 4IR Policy, which emphasise digital transformation, sustainability, and improved quality of life. This study adopts the Design Thinking (DT) methodology, including literature review, benchmarking using the Business Model Canvas (BMC), and data collection through surveys and interviews. An initial business model is developed using the Environment Map (EM), BMC, and Value Proposition Canvas (VPC), together with a high-fidelity digital platform prototype. The model is then tested and validated with target users and stakeholders. A Strategy Canvas is constructed to compare the validated model with existing industry players. The findings indicate strong demand for a structured meal subscription system that enhances convenience, cost control, and healthy eating while reducing environmental impact. The validated model shows that Kaleng acts as both a pain reliever and gain creator by integrating digital meal planning, reusable packaging, and transparent sponsorship features. This paper contributes by proposing a differentiated, technology-enabled, and sustainability-driven business model aligned with national development agendas. Future work includes developing a full business plan and scaling the platform for wider implementation.
Keywords: Kaleng, Sustainable, Smart Meal Subscription, Food Waste, Urban Communities, Technology, AI, IoT, Blockchain, Food Accessibility.
Title: A Conceptual Kaleng Business Model: Sustainable Digital Meal Subscription and Reusable Packaging Platform
Author: Yasmin Hanani Salsabila Binti Md Hakiim, Amni Nuwairah Binti Abdul Hanan, Noor Zafirah Alya Binti Noor Shizarin, Nur Khairyna Binti Ahmad Khairy, Abdul Rahman Bin Ahmad Dahlan
International Journal of Management and Commerce Innovations
ISSN 2348-7585 (Online)
Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 450-465
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 25-May-2026
