Challenging economic outlook sees emergence of more purposeful businesses

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected almost all sectors of the economy among which, the food and beverage sector has been especially hurt, no thanks to the circuit breaker measures which banned in-restaurant dining, and subsequently, a strict cap on group sizes and operating hours. 

However, this has not deterred PopeJai, a Thai restaurant chain cum social enterprise from integrating acts of good into their operations. Founded by Daniel Teh – a reformed gang member – the company looks to providing a safety net of sorts for individuals such as youth at risk or persons with disabilities who encounter difficulties securing employment. As such, a vast majority of its employees are individuals from marginalised or vulnerable backgrounds.

PopeJai’s contributions to society has been duly recognised. It has been named as a “Champion of Good 2020” by the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre’s (NVPC) Company of Good. This is the first time that the restaurant chain is being conferred this award.