Bismi Empire Spreads Its Wings

One night in early April 1998, Mazlina (responsible for the financial affairs of Bismi Empire) encountered a worrying predicament and discussed matters with Jaffri (the owner and her husband), “Dear, I want to talk about the debtor record in this financial report. The total is RM600,000 since September 1997. The note shows 23 vendors who are indebted to Bismi Empire.” Mazlina detailed each item to her husband, who examined the record intently. The record was placed open on their Mitsubishi Pajero seat, which smelled of their products. “The lengthiest debt is seven months, and the largest debt is RM73,000,” Mazlina continued disgruntledly. Mazlina explained about her past week reminder to Saad, an old acquaintance of Jaffri. His repayment in the last seven months was too little, not even 20% of the total. Nevertheless, Jaffri smiled at Mazlina without a word. “Why do you still let them owe money?” although Mazlina knew her husband’s behaviour well, she found it difficult to understand. Business and personal life should be distinguished: they are two distinct spaces. “No worries, dear, we are helping other people. We are not losing money, and maybe tomorrow or the day after, they will surely pay,” he responded while rubbing Mazlina’s shoulders. “This has gone for too long, dear. Have a look at the figures in our account. I am worried and upset. How long will those vendors at the market continue like this?” Mazlina tried to calm her muddled emotions but persisted, “Dear, is not our business principle to avoid debts? We have to pay Ah Kong and his supplier friends immediately. I am worried that Bismi Empire will lose its blessing if we continue being in debt.” Mazlina’s tone went higher as she pondered how to solve the issue. Jaffri looked to his side; the noise from the vendors and buyers in the market was more interesting.