GEORGE TOWN: Online delivery service Foodpanda has partnered with Penang Halal International, a subsidiary of state-owned entity Penang Development Corporation, to launch a Ramadan e-bazaar in the state.
As the country is in its third phase of the Movement Control Order (MCO) and social distancing is highly encouraged, Foodpanda said it wanted to ensure Penangites could still order their Ramadan favourites while helping Halal-compliant businesses reach customers.
The culture of Ramadan bazaars has always been something locals look forward to as the holy month draws near.
According to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the Penang government, under the initiative of Penang Halal International, continues to support the business community by collaborative efforts which include teaming up with Foodpanda.
He said Penang consumers would be served with a special delivery platform despite challenges and the ongoing MCO.
“In line with our ‘Next Normal Penang Strategy’, I hope through the Foodpanda platform, we will be able to encourage more Halal business operators to use this window and embrace the future in a technology-driven world," he said in a statement today.
Penang International Halal chairman Datuk Abdul Halim Hussain said by partnering with Foodpanda, it would further promote Penang Halal International’s mission of a “Halal & Toyyiban (Hygiene) Lifestyle” among the business community.
"The collaboration is aimed at enabling businesses to continue serving the consumers via digital solutions," he added.
Meanwhile, Foodpanda Malaysia managing director Sayantan Das said the company was grateful to be able to work with Penang Halal International to extend a hand and lighten the burden of Halal-compliant businesses.
"This is a challenging time for the nation, but by working together, I believe we can come out of this stronger than before,” he said.
The Ramadan e-bazaar partnership between Penang Halal International and Foodpanda will go live early Ramadan.
Customers can find participating businesses by selecting the dedicated swimlane on the platform to order from a variety of local vendors.