KUALA LUMPUR – The recent initiative by the Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA) and local food chain Oldtown Kopitiam to distribute free food to the needy should be commended, said social activist James Nayagam.
Nayagam said it should be an example for big food chains, especially global franchises operating in Malaysia, to follow.
“It is a good idea, they should do it,” the founder of Shelter Homes and Suriana Welfare Society told The Vibes.
When asked whether some big-name food chains had dragged their feet to lend assistance during the pandemic, Nayagam said this was not necessarily the case.
“Not exactly, as this depended on the type of food (being served).
“Not many people will eat burgers instead of rice,” he said.
In a press release on Friday, both MFA and Oldtown Kopitiam, the country’s largest halal kopitiam chain, said they are handing out free food at 20 of the latter’s selected outlets in the northern and southern region of the peninsula, as well as the Klang Valley.
The initiative is called the “Franchise CSR-Oldtown Meals Giveaway” programme and runs from February 18 till March 3.
Oldtown’s halal taskforce chairman Datuk Ahmed Tasir Lope Pihie said that the Covid-19 pandemic had not only impacted businesses, but adversely affected the community as many had lost their sources of income.
“This was even more so when the government implemented the movement control order to contain the outbreak.
“There were many changes that needed to be adapted to, especially among parents who had to spend more for high living expenses in the city.
"Although we, too, are affected by the pandemic, we are still concerned about the community at large.
“We hope this small contribution will help ease the burden of those who are (living) around our outlets,” he said in a statement.
Tasir said the distribution involved 50 packs of full meals, sandwiches, and drinks at each outlet daily.
He said the outlets included Tesco Bagan Ajam, Penang; Bandar Sunway, Penang; Jelutong, Penang; Auto City, Penang; Jalan Genuang, Johor; Batu Pahat Mall, Johor; Lien Hoe, Johor; Taman University, Johor; Melaka Raya, Melaka; Pandamaran; Equine Park; Mines Mall; Taipan; Ikon Connaught; One City, USJ; Kuchai Lama; Pearl Point; Ampang Water Front; Metro Point, Kajang; and Jalan Kuching.
Meanwhile, MFA said it welcomed any form of cooperation from its members, or from those in the franchise industry, for community service
It said the Franchise CSR programme reflected MFA’s concern for those struck by the pandemic, and had helped to promote the franchise’s brands to the public.
MFA chairman Datuk Radzali Hassan said MFA will continue such initiatives and welcomed franchises from other sectors to take part. – The Vibes, February 22, 2021
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