Sharmila Burmese Balachaung: The refugee business dilemma in Kuala Lumpur

This case study focuses on Sharmila Burmese Balachaung, operated by Ms Sharmila. This sole proprietorship is an example of refugee entrepreneurship in the food and beverage sector in Kuala Lumpur. This sector’s vibrancy has been driven by financial growth and improved purchasing power, where small and medium enterprises provide opportunities for refugee entrepreneurs to thrive despite their lack of legal protection.

Some challenges facing Ms Sharmila include: (1) being a sole proprietor, and hence managing the business alone; (2) heavy competition with similar products sold by other refugees from Myanmar; (3) limited bargaining power with suppliers; (4) her absence from online platforms; and (5) a lack of financial access to traditional banking opportunities. Hence, some recommendations are: (1) optimising production processes; (2) diversifying product offerings; (3) expanding and segmenting markets; (4) embracing digitalisation; and (5) pursuing appropriate forms of financial management. By taking these steps accordingly, Ms Sharmila has demonstrated strategic innovation, thus blending traditional practices with contemporary approaches.