Nasi briyani business helps to support family during pandemic

WHERE there is a will, there is a way. The Covid-19 pandemic brought about many hardships such as the loss of income which has been made worse by the movement control orders and the standard operating procedures. 

Mohamad Zubir Badarshair, 41, is among those who have struggled with the situation.

Zubir, who owns a film distribution company, was forced to find an alternative to support his family. The local film industry was paralysed and his company has had no projects.

Instead of wallowing and complaining, the father of three decided to do something that he never thought he would ever be involved in – the food business. 

He chose to sell nasi briyani, which is popular in Batu Pahat, and felt optimistic that his small business will be able to grow if he plans it properly.

“The Covid-19 pandemic was a huge blow to me as I have used up all my savings to support my family. When I found out that my cousin wanted to start the Nasi Briyani Berkat franchise system, I mustered the courage to try.

“I had no experience in this field so I took a few months to learn by helping at the Nasi Briyani Berkat stall at Taman Tun Dr Ismail. I took note of how they did the packing and I was encouraged by the public’s support for them. When I finally had the confidence, I took over the stall in August,” Zubir said.

On why he chose the franchise system compared to selling food which he prepares, Zubir said he is aware that this system would require him to share the profits.

“But I did not have to buy the items, cook or get the equipment for the business. The pots are also prepared by the management – I don’t even have to wash them afterwards,” he said.

“Once everything is sold out, I return everything to their kitchen and I come back the next day to take the freshly cooked rice and other food items. Since I don’t know how to cook and I have no experience, this franchise system is the best option for me,” he said.

Spices from Batu Pahat

Talking about his business, Zubir said the Nasi Briyani Berkat is prepared by an experienced chef who uses spices from Batu Pahat, Johor.

“To maintain the authentic taste, all the spices are brought in specially from Batu Pahat which is well known for its briyani.

Customers can choose three types of dishes – ayam masak merah, chicken briyani and mutton briyani. 

“The most popular dish is our mutton briyani as the meat is very soft and easy to consume,” he said.

“I guarantee the taste of the dishes as we have many returning customers. I had also sought my mother’s opinion who gave a thumbs up for the food,” he said.

Those who wish to try the Nasi Briyani Berkat can head to Jalan Burhanuddin Helmi, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.

Zubir’s stall is near the CIMB Bank and Oh Cha Matcha. He starts operating from 11am, Tuesdays to Sundays. – The Vibes, October 6, 2021

#PetraKasih is an initiative under the Vinod Sekhar Foundation to assist and promote food stalls and small traders, including home-based businesses, during the pandemic. Each week, Getaran will highlight the plight of different food traders. If you know a food stall or small trader in your area and feel they deserve to be featured, contact us at [email protected].

* This story first appeared in our Bahasa Malaysia sister portal Getaran