Selangor Dredging Berhad (SDB)’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, One-Two-Boost (OTB), has opened its first physical retail outlet at Mid Valley Megamall, marking 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 who serves as the Director of the Department for the Development of Persons with Disabilities, under the Department of Social Welfare Malaysia. He praised OTB as a “commendable example of responsible corporate leadership in action”.

Visitors explore the thoughtfully curated range of herbal-based wellness products at the OTB physical store, guided by knowledgeable OTB staff who share insights into each formulation. The engaging interaction not only highlights the unique benefits of the products but also showcases the capabilities and confidence of the special needs team behind the initiative.

“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 said. “Together, 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, 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,” said Teh. “With this store, we aim to amplify OTB’s true purpose — not just 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, 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 — bridging the gap between the special needs community and the wider public.

Shamil (not in the pic above), is also a dedicated member of the OTB team, carefully prepares a herbal formulation with precision and focus — an essential step before the product is sealed and packaged for customers. His role reflects the heart of OTB’s mission: empowering individuals with special needs through meaningful, skill-based employment.

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,” said 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.

The OTB team. Front Row (from left to right): Moh Foong, Choong Jian, Yoong Xin, Ee Hunt, Theng Yee, Gin Chin. Back Row (from left to right): Muhammad Naqiuddin, Nicholas Sek, Emrick See, Roderick Chong, Tzi Yu, Qi Han, Akhil Datta, Chee Chuan

“What we need is more empathy, more kindness, and above all, more hope,” she said. “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.”

For more information or to support this meaningful initiative, visit http://www.12boost.com.my.

Source: Selangor Dredging Berhad

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.

Interested in having your press releases, exclusive interviews, or branded content articles on Malaysiakini? For more information, contact [email protected] or [email protected]