SDB's CSR Mid Valley Megamall retail store set to further empower special needs community

Focus Malaysia

4 hours ago

SELANGOR Dredging Bhd's (SDB) flagship corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, One-Two-Boost (OTB), has opened its first physical retail outlet at Mid Valley Megamall.
It marks a major milestone in its mission to empower individuals with special needs through meaningful employment and inclusive community engagement.
The store's official launch was officiated by Pathmanathan Nalasamy (left on main image) who is the director of the Development of Persons with Disabilities Department under the Department of Social Welfare Malaysia.
'The inclusion of persons with disabilities must be a shared responsibility. While the government continues to introduce policies and programmes to support their integration, it is heartening to see private sector leaders like SDB stepping up in meaningful ways,' he praised.
'Through strong public-private collaboration, we continue to build a society that values diversity, promotes dignity and ensures that no one is left behind in Malaysia's development journey.'
Conceived and spearheaded by SDB managing director Teh Lip Kim herself, OTB was born out of a deeply personal desire to support and provide employment for individuals with special needs.
'What started as a small initiative has grown beyond what I imagined,' recalled Teh (second from right on main image).
'With this store, we aim to amplify OTB's true purpose – not just hy offering jobs – but raising awareness and building understanding between the special needs community and the public.'
Initially launched as an online venture, OTB's expansion into a physical store reflects growing public support for its mission and the broader appeal of its holistic wellness offerings.
The Mid Valley Megamall outlet showcases over 50 herbal-based products which are developed in collaboration with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) physicians. These include herbal drinks, immunity-boosting soups, balms and other products promoting holistic well-being.
More than just a retail space, the store serves as a platform for awareness, inclusion and meaningful interaction by bridging the gap between the special needs community and the wider public.
Pathmanathan and Teh also expressed their gratitude to Mid Valley Megamall for supporting OTB's mission by providing a prominent platform within one of Malaysia's most visited shopping destinations.
'The impact of this store is set to be immense,' envisages Teh. 'It serves as a venue where this community can gain confidence and independence, and where every customer encounter becomes a chance to break down stigma.'
Teh added that the store creates a valuable space for the special needs team to gain exposure and develop interpersonal skills while offering the public an opportunity to engage meaningfully.
'What we need is more empathy, more kindness and above all, more hope,' she stressed.
'Each product on our shelves represents not just care and craftsmanship, but also courage – the courage of this community to show up, to grow and to be seen.
'Our hope is that every customer who walks through our doors leaves not only with something good for their body but something uplifting for the heart.'
Visit http://www.12boost.com.my for Mmore information or to support this meaningful initiative. – June 27, 2025