Maryland Dough dishes up hope and belonging in Kota Kinabalu

Maryland Dough, a bakery in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, is providing hope and a sense of belonging to individuals with special needs, seniors, and retirees. Established by Tricia Richard Linsang and Sharon Shilla Sylvester, the bakery aims to equip participants with practical skills and foster connections within the community. Linsang, a former early childhood educator, noticed a common fear among parents of children with special needs - what would happen to them when their caregivers were no longer around.

Similarly, she observed seniors struggling with purpose and income after retirement. Maryland Dough offers a solution by providing a real-world working environment where participants can learn baking skills, handle money, and interact with customers. Participants, including 15 special-needs youths and one senior, also benefit from mentorship and camaraderie.

The bakery, located in Penampang, was named after Linsang's late mother, who instilled a passion for education in her daughter. In its first year, Maryland Dough has gained recognition, including being named one of five state winners of the Shell LiveWire Malaysia Sabah challenge. Linsang hopes to expand the bakery's model nationwide and increase awareness about inclusion in Malaysia.