Second chance for used items
> Pre-loved store opens to promote ‘5Rs’ for environmental protection
KUALA LUMPUR: A first-of-its-kind preloved store has opened its doors at the popular shopping mall Berjaya Times Square for the purpose of upholding the spirit of extending the lifespan of resources.
Store co-owner and part of the Tzu Chi KL and Selangor’s Entrepreneurs Group Puan Sri Tong Siew Bee said the idea of the store – 5R Eco – came about following the call of Master Cheng Yen from the Tzu Chi Foundation who urged everyone to “do recycling with the hands that clap”.
“This is why the store is set up to promote the 5Rs of environmental protection – refuse, reduce, reuse, repair and recycle – to extend the lifespan of resources.
“All the items for sale including clothing, handbags, shoes and apparels, are generously donated by the public and artistes, and all profits gained will be channelled to charities,” Tong said after the official launch of the store yesterday.
Tong added that the public can donate items they no longer need to the store and if the donated items are found unsuitable, they will pass them to other organisations which can put them to good use.
Inspired by the same calling, Berjaya Corporation founder Tan Sri Vincent Tan decided to show his support towards the establishment by subsidising the rental of the store.
“When Tzu Chi approached me with this 5Rs idea few months back, I told them on the spot it’s a good idea and I would support them wholeheartedly by offering a strategically-located store so that they could raise some funds.
“This is indeed a good initiative because it eventually allows those from the middle income group the opportunity to purchase some high-end items without having to burn a hole in their wallet,” Tan said.
He added that if there are other organisations which plan to open a store similar to 5R Eco in Berjaya Times Square, they can approach him as he would consider assisting them.