Bacteria Free Water Engineering (M) Sdn. Bhd., also known as BACFREE®, a leader in Malaysia’s water solutions industry, became one of the first companies to achieve the SIRIM 55:2023 ESG certification at the Majlis SIRIM Industri 2024 event on 7th November, which was graced by the Deputy Secretary General (Investment & Management) of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil. The event coincided with SIRIM’s introduction of its new ESG Holistic Ecosystem, a comprehensive initiative to support companies in achieving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives.
Established in 1982, BACFREE® has transformed the water sector by pioneering advanced filtration and rainwater harvesting solutions that align with sustainable goals. Known as Southeast Asia’s largest provider of rainwater harvesting systems, BACFREE® serves thousands of residential, commercial, and industrial clients across Malaysia. With over 71,000 residential and 13,000 commercial installations, BACFREE®’s systems enable the collection of over 55 million cubic meters of rainwater annually, reducing CO₂ emissions by approximately 31,416 tonnes—a significant contribution to environmental conservation.
“The ESG Management system will be our corporate compass going forward. This certification will anchor our brand value and propel us to the next level of growth. We are committed to delivering innovative rainwater harvesting and water filtration solutions sustainably, ensuring that no taps will run dry for the future generations,” stated Dr. Chee Chung Yee, BACFREE®’s technical director after receiving the certification.
Certified by Germany’s DIN, Malaysia’s MyHIJAU, and SIRIM Eco-Labelling, and rigorously tested by Malaysia’s National Water Research Institute (NAHRIM), BACFREE®’s systems exemplify high standards of quality and environmental stewardship. In partnership with Monash University, the company has invested in research and development to create patented rainwater harvesting systems optimized for Malaysia’s tropical climate.
Beyond providing rainwater harvesting solutions, BACFREE® collaborates extensively with government bodies, SPAN, local authorities, and NGOs to advocate for water management practices that meet local needs. The company’s team has also completed Greenhouse Gas (GHG) accounting training, enabling designs that help clients meet their sustainability goals. BACFREE®’s efforts as an ESG-certified company include supplying CO2 emissions data for clients aiming to reduce Scope 3 upstream emissions. Customers installing BACFREE® systems may qualify for Malaysia’s Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA) through 2026, supporting their own sustainability objectives.
Expanding its environmental impact, BACFREE® addresses plastic waste reduction in the hospitality sector with its under-counter filtration systems, eliminating the need for single-use plastic and glass bottles. The company also provides a range of filtration and disinfection systems that meet rigorous international standards, including JAKIM Halal certification for broader use in healthcare, hospitality, and food services. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified company, BACFREE® offers end-to-end solutions—from water analysis to design, implementation, and turnkey services—tailored to support customers’ sustainability goals. Through responsible sourcing, energy-saving strategies, and comprehensive water management solutions, BACFREE® continues to be a trusted partner in its clients’ ESG journeys.
Highlighting MITI’s continuous effort to encourage the adoption of ESG practices among local companies, Bahria expressed, “The SIRIM 55:2023 ESG Management Systems award is a commendable achievement for Malaysian companies like BACFREE® and others, as it highlights their dedication to sustainability and aligns with national goals for a greener economy. MITI proudly applauds the increasing number of homegrown businesses that have begun embracing ESG principles, demonstrating a firm commitment to sustainable growth and responsible business practices.”
“Their efforts not only contribute to a stronger economy and a healthier environment but also support Malaysia’s vision for a sustainable future, setting a benchmark for others to follow,” she continued.
The launch of the ESG Holistic Ecosystem marked SIRIM’s latest commitment towards supporting Malaysian companies in achieving sustainability goals. The Ecosystem provides businesses with certifications and training from SIRIM QAS, SIRIM Academy, and SIRIM IR, including ISO and the new SIRIM 55:2023 ESG standard.
With the SIRIM 55:2023 certification, BACFREE® demonstrates a steadfast commitment to integrating ESG values into its business model, leading by example and helping other companies meet their own sustainability targets. Log on to https://bacfree.com.my to know more.