Image via Bernama

Since the pandemic struck the world, many have suffered the loss of jobs, income, shelter, and some have lost a clear sense of direction as they struggle to make ends meet. This unsung hero in the DIGIyin Saathanai Hero-kkal campaign became the man of the hour at the start of the Movement Control Order (MCO) 2.0 this year.

M. Moganasundram, who runs Big Boss Banana Leaf Restaurant in Nibong Tebal, Penang, saw the severity of what the second nationwide lockdown could do to the community. So he started helping those in need by giving away free food.

That’s a big deal coming from someone who’s operating a business selling food to earn a living!


Image via Big Boss Banana Leaf

The 37-year-old restaurant owner began offering 100 packs of rice and side dishes to the public for free. He started this initiative during the first run of MCO 2.0, which was initially scheduled to end on 26 January.

However, despite the several extensions that have been implemented in the past couple of weeks, he promised to keep this up until the very last day, which is exactly what he and his team have been doing so far.

Moganasundram currently has 12 helpers working with him. Every day, they would prepare the food from 3pm onwards and get them ready for distribution by 6pm. They set aside 10kg of rice, 100 fish, 100 eggs, 100 pieces of chicken, and plenty of vegetables to give away.


Image via Big Boss Banana Leaf

“We usually change the menu for the side dishes every day. The menu includes white rice, egg in sambal, fried fish, chicken, vegetables and gravy,” he said.

Seeing the plight of the people, Moganasundram’s priority is not money now but to do good for his fellow community, regardless of race and religion.


Image via Big Boss Banana Leaf

“There are still those among us who are not as fortunate and are living in poverty. We have to help,” he added.

Many people have applauded their work at Big Boss Banana Leaf, including those who have come forward to receive free food from the restaurant. Sometimes, he would even call those he knows are living alone with very little means to survive and invite them over for a meal.


Image via Bernama

We’re so inspired by this story and we hope that this will continue to motivate those of us who are capable to help the community we’re in.cKudos to you and your team, Moganasundram!

As part of the DIGIyin Saathanai Hero-kkal campaign, we’re constantly looking to share stories of Malaysian ‘superheroes’ that live amongst us.



If you know a hero or if you have an inspirational story about overcoming challenges, we’d love to hear from you. Just submit your story at RAAGA’s website or click the image above.