A FOUNDATION FOR GLOBAL SUCCESS

What began with a single ISO 9001 certification about 30 years ago has since grown into a multi-faceted relationship spanning product testing, regulatory advisory and technical troubleshooting.

“We have worked with SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd (SIRIM QAS International) even before becoming part of the global Daikin Group. The foundation we built through those audits helped us scale and eventually integrate into global operations,” said Woon Hon Wing, General Manager of the QAQC & Supply Centre Department at Daikin.

ADDING VALUE
While SIRIM QAS International is recognised for its certification, testing and inspection services, what stands out to Daikin is how these services are delivered with relevance, responsiveness and an understanding of Malaysia’s industrial realities.

Woon recounted a specific challenge when Malaysia updated its energy efficiency regulations, which could have affected production timelines. “SIRIM QAS International proactively engaged with us. In addition to informing us about the changes, they also coordinated with regulators and explained what was needed in a practical way. That kind of support ensured we could transition smoothly without affecting our market supply,” he shared.

MEETING REAL-WORLD NEEDS
Daikin’s needs extend beyond certification. As a leader in air conditioning systems and HVAC technology, the company frequently turns to SIRIM QAS International for advanced laboratory analysis, especially during product development or quality troubleshooting.

“It is not cost-effective for us to invest in that equipment ourselves, but SIRIM’s laboratories have the capability and, more importantly, the technical knowledge to help us get to the root cause,” explained Woon. Just as important as the tools are the people behind the work. Woon highlighted the value of SIRIM QAS International’s auditors, noting that their practical understanding of industry operations adds tremendous value to every audit.

“ISO 9001 is written in a one-size-fits-all way. Without contextual explanation, some of it can be hard to apply. But the auditors relate it to our actual operations, which helps our teams understand the purpose behind the standard and implement it properly.” He also pointed out the long-term benefits of such grounded insight. When Daikin’s global headquarters assessed the Malaysian operations, they found its quality systems not only effective, but also well aligned with international benchmarks.

“That is a testament to the foundation laid with SIRIM,” Woon said. A key example of Daikin’s success stories with SIRIM QAS International was the launch of Daikin’s R32 inverter product line, which required fast certification to meet market demand. “SIRIM prioritised the project because it understood our business urgency. That allowed us to meet market demand at just the right time,” Woon explained.

A PARTNERSHIP THAT SCALES WITH VISION

With Daikin continuing to strengthen its presence locally and abroad, Woon emphasised that the role of a reliable partner cannot be overstated. “Our collaboration with SIRIM goes beyond the typical client-supplier relationship. It is built on trust, understanding and shared goals. That is how we will move forward together.”

As SIRIM celebrates its 50th anniversary, Daikin looks ahead with optimism. “We are proud to be part of SIRIM’s journey. Their work not only elevates Malaysian standards but enables companies like ours to reach further,” Woon shared.

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