It also reduces stigma surrounding the individuals and helps to support some worthy causes. This makes for a more inclusive society in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals which includes reducing inequalities. Here are some local businesses to keep in mind:
Barnabas - Dream It Do It
Barnabas Leong is a young man with Down’s Syndrome who dreams of living independently. With the help of family members, he started his online business on Shopee, Lazada and Facebook which sells a variety of goods including health supplements, rice, beverages and even hair care.
His business has even caught the attention and support of Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah Ibni Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj. Talk about achieving your dreams!
Check out his Facebook page here.
Bake with Dignity
BWD takes pride in their cakes, cookies, pies and savoury food, which they believe that quality should never be compromised on, no matter the cause. Their menu ranges from fragrant butter cakes to flavourful Ayam Percik, which you can even order in bulk for parties and meetings. A party with a cause? Yes, please!
This baking business helps to support adults with learning disabilities (AwLD), helping them to learn and earn simultaneously. Besides selling their baked goods online, they operate a bakery and café.
Check out their Facebook page here.
RC Deaf Missions Malaysia
A cafe, merchandise store and Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) learning center all in one, this local business provides career opportunities for Deaf persons. Sink your teeth into yummy bites at their café as they have an extensive menu, including Nasi Lemak Chicken Sandwiches and even one for vegetarians such as roti jala and potato curry.
Visit their Facebook page here.
Kneading Peace
Same Skies, a non-profit organisation manages this café, shop & creative space. They aim to support refugees and asylum seekers by using their skills and knowledge to contribute to society through the Kneading Peace Social Enterprise. Their focaccia incorporating bread art looks like a gorgeous garden and will make for the perfect gift for friends too.
You will even find Zopf here, which you may be hard pressed to find in your local bakery: soft, plaited Swiss bread that is traditionally served for their Sunday brunches. Also on the menu are European panini, pastries & gelato.
Check out their Facebook page here.
Image credit: @barnabasblessingstore, @BakewithDignity, @rcdeafmissionsmalaysia, @kneadingpeace.org