Bacfree has hit a significant milestone in the water solutions sector by securing the SIRIM 55:2023 ESG certification. This accolade, awarded during the Majlis SIRIM Industri 2024 event, underscores Bacfree’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and its pivotal role in enhancing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards within Malaysia’s water industry. With prominent figures like Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil from the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) in attendance, the event highlighted the government’s backing for local firms that champion sustainable practices.
Founded in 1982, Bacfree has been a game-changer in the water industry, offering innovative filtration and rainwater harvesting solutions. As the largest provider of rainwater harvesting systems in Southeast Asia, Bacfree has made a notable impact, collecting over 55 million cubic meters of rainwater annually. This impressive feat translates to a reduction of about 31,416 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year, demonstrating Bacfree’s dedication to environmental conservation and resource efficiency.
Dr. Chee Chung Yee, Bacfree’s technical director, articulated the company’s vision, stating, “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 future generations.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend where businesses increasingly recognise that sustainability is not just a buzzword but a strategic imperative.
Bacfree’s commitment to quality is evident in its certifications from Germany’s DIN, Malaysia’s MyHIJAU, and SIRIM Eco-Labelling, which showcase rigorous quality standards and environmental stewardship. The company is also making waves in research and development, collaborating with Monash University to tailor patented rainwater harvesting systems for Malaysia’s tropical climate. This fusion of innovation and sustainability sets Bacfree apart in a competitive landscape.
But Bacfree’s influence goes beyond innovative products. As an ESG-certified entity, the company collaborates with government bodies, local authorities, and NGOs to foster responsible water management. The team’s training in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) accounting equips them to design solutions that align with clients’ sustainability goals, potentially reducing Scope 3 upstream emissions. For businesses utilizing Bacfree’s systems, the provision of CO₂ emissions data could pave the way for qualifying for Malaysia’s Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA), which incentivises sustainability initiatives through 2026.
Bacfree is also tackling plastic waste in the hospitality sector by providing under-counter filtration systems that eliminate the reliance on single-use plastic and glass bottles. Their filtration and disinfection systems adhere to stringent international standards and include JAKIM Halal-certified products, making them suitable for various sectors, including healthcare and food services.
The SIRIM 55:2023 ESG Management Systems award not only celebrates Bacfree’s achievements but also serves as a beacon for other Malaysian companies. Datuk Bahria’s praise of Bacfree’s leadership in sustainable business reinforces the notion that such initiatives contribute to a healthier environment and a robust economy, aligning with Malaysia’s vision for a sustainable future. This new certification is part of SIRIM’s Holistic Ecosystem initiative, which aims to assist Malaysian businesses in meeting their ESG objectives through comprehensive training, certification, and consultancy services.
As Bacfree continues to lead the charge in sustainable water management, its journey offers valuable lessons for other companies aiming to meet their sustainability targets. The SIRIM certification positions Bacfree not just as a participant in the water industry, but as a model of how businesses can intertwine profitability with responsibility. For more insights into Bacfree’s sustainability initiatives, visit bacfree.com.my.
