Founders Fireside
The Price of Purpose: What Sustainability Costs Us
Building a sustainable business isn’t just about impact—it often comes with real trade-offs. At this Founders Fireside, we sit down with Amy Blair, founder of Batik Boutique, and Irfan Mohamed of Urban Hijau to explore the often-unspoken costs of running a social enterprise. From navigating financial sustainability to managing team burnout and balancing purpose with profit, we’ll unpack what it truly takes to lead with impact in today’s business landscape.
Amy Blair, originally from the United States, moved to Malaysia in 2007 and began Batik Boutique in 2013 after seeing the need for sustainable employment among artisans in low-income communities. What began as a grassroots effort has since grown into an award-winning, B Corp-certified business with a global customer base.
Under Amy’s leadership, Batik Boutique has trained and employed over 400 artisans, produced millions of handmade batik items, and collaborated with global brands including Marriott, Ikea, and Spotify. The company champions ethical fashion and ESG practices, using sustainable materials and dyeing processes as well transparent supply chains to make a lasting impact in both fashion and community development.
Irfan Mohamed an acoustical engineer by profession got his first exposure to permaculture in Australia where he used to help his sister and brother in-law on their veggie patch. He has since completed his PDC (Permaculture Design Certificate, 2014).
Since 2020 together with Urban Hijau he has gotten involved in food security particularly in addressing food security amongst the needy. In his recent TEDx Talk he highlighted the journey food travels to reach a person’s plate.
In 2022 while learning about ESG he stumbled upon Circular Economy and is currently pursuing his certification as a Circular Economy Specialist.
AGENDA
10.30am- Registration of Guests
11.05am- Introduction to The Dune
11.10am- Two founders share their stories
11.45pm- New guests introduce themselves
12.00pm- Open Discussion about the Fireside topic
12.15pm- Networking Brunch sponsored by The Dune
1.00pm- End