Finding meaningful employment can be a challenge for many, but for those living with disabilities, the barriers can feel even higher. Yet, across Malaysia, there are extraordinary individuals who have turned those challenges into opportunities and creating not just a livelihood, but spaces of inclusion, empowerment, and warmth.

Here are 10 heartwarming eateries in Malaysia that are run by people with disabilities, reminding us that with resilience and the right support, nothing is impossible.


RC Deaf Missions Cafe, Selangor


What began as a training centre in 2006 by siblings Agnes and Mario Peter have grown into a thriving café empowering the Deaf community. Offering affordable and flavourful Western-Asian dishes like sambal cashew nut fried rice and Double Fish & Chips sandwiches, this café serves more than just food; it fosters connection and awareness. Guests can even learn Malaysian Sign Language through occasional workshops.

Address: 2-4 & 2-6, 2-7, Level 2 Kedai KL, Block B, Jalan Ilmu, Kuala Lumpur

DIB (Deaf in Business) Restaurant, Selangor


Founded by Dr Allen Teh, DIB Restaurant opened in 2011 to provide employment opportunities for the deaf and disabled. Inspired by his own early work experience and driven by compassion, Dr Teh has created a safe and empowering workplace that serves both Western and local cuisine. They also offer venue rental and catering services.

Address: PJ Trade Centre, 1st Floor, Menara Gamuda, Damansara Perdana, Petaling Jaya

Stand Pie Me, Petaling Jaya


Launched just before the pandemic, Stand Pie Me is staffed by individuals with special needs and offers a delightful menu of fresh pies, apple crumble, quiches, and festive cookies. Manager Sarjit Singh, inspired by his son with special needs, turned vision into action to create a nurturing space for others like him.

Address: Lot G-052, Ground Floor, Millennium Square, Section 14, Petaling Jaya

Kafe Basikal Tua, Selangor

Born out of gratitude after recovering from a stroke with the help of a blind masseur, Raja Iskandar opened this café to support the visually impaired and disabled. With dishes prepared by disabled cooks and served picnic-style in tiffin carriers, the café offers a rotating menu of homely favourites like Nasi Arab and Nasi Kerabu. Every meal comes with a story and a soul.

Address: 3333, Jalan Palimbayan Indah, Kampung Palimbayan Indah, Kuala Lumpur

Bake With Dignity, Petaling Jaya

From a nonprofit supporting adult with learning difficulties since 1991, Bake With Dignity has grown into a full-fledged café where these adults bake and serve with love. From hearty meals like Chicken Biryani to pastries like shepherd’s pie and curry puffs, the café champions ability, not disability.

Address: Leisure Commerce Square, Block A2, Unit 126, Petaling Jaya

Tender Hearts Café, Kuala Lumpur

Founded by Sharon Lee, a cancer survivor and mother to a child with special needs, this café is a labour of love and resilience. What began with three special needs staff in 2018 has now blossomed into a growing community, offering dishes like fried rice and nasi lemak. The café also provides catering services and a message of hope to families everywhere.

Address: L2.05, Level 2, KL Gateway Mall, Kerinchi, Kuala Lumpur

Yong Teng Café, Cameron Highlands

In the cool hills of Cameron, a humble café run by a hearing and speech-impaired couple serves some of the area’s most comforting food. Known for their chicken chop, nasi lemak, and made-to-order noodles, the duo’s silent dedication speaks volumes about passion, perseverance, and love.

Address: Jalan Camelia Utama 1, Tanah Rata, Cameron Highlands, Pahang

Dialogue in the Dark

Step into the world of Darkness with DiD workshops, where sight is not needed to gain insight. Stevens Chan Kum Fai, the esteemed CEO and founder of DiD Malaysia, exemplifies resilience and determination following visual impairment from Glaucoma. This company is paving the way for inclusivity and empowerment by creating job opportunities for visually impaired individuals.

Autism Café Project


Celebrating the inspiring initiative of Mohd Adli Yahya, a devoted parent who opened the Autism Café Project in iM4u Central, Puchong. Their mission is to equip individuals with Autism with the tools needed for independence and success in daily life.


Starbucks

Did you know that Starbucks Malaysia made history by opening the world's first outlet with hearing-impaired baristas in 2016?

Coffee with a side of inclusivity - Starbucks in Bangsar Village offers menus to help you order your drink in sign language. Indeed, a good initiative!

These cafes are more than just places to eat, they are spaces of acceptance, empowerment, and transformation. They show us that when you give people a chance, they don’t just survive, they thrive. So, the next time you dine out, consider visiting one of these inspiring spots where every dish is served with a generous helping of hope.

Source / Image Credit : Gempak , TripAdvisor, The Star , Tender Hearts Cafe, RC Deaf Missions Malaysia, EatDrinkKL, Bake With Dignity, TripAdvisor