Industrial System Engineering & Products ISEP (M) Sdn Bhd, a leading provider of explosion-proof electrical equipment and engineering services, offers comprehensive solutions that span design, product selection, erection, testing, commissioning, training, and consultancy—particularly for hazardous industrial environments such as oil & gas, petrochemical, and offshore sectors.

In 2025, ISEP was recognised with the prestigious Golden Bull Award, a testament to its steady growth, technical excellence, and mission-driven focus on ensuring safety in high-risk industries. This accolade places ISEP among Malaysia's most outstanding SMEs and affirms its commitment to protecting lives and assets through innovative solutions and certified training.

Engineering Safety Through Expertise

Founded in 2014, ISEP has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner for explosion-proof electrical solutions and integrated engineering services. Led by Managing Director Robert Lee & Mr. Hii Ding Sin, the company supports clients in hazardous environments with end-to-end offerings, from equipment manufacturing and design to installation, commissioning, and safety training.

A pivotal moment in Robert’s career shaped ISEP’s vision. In 2008, while working as a project engineer at a petrochemical plant, he witnessed a fatal explosion.

"That incident taught me that safety isn’t just about equipment—it’s about knowledge, systems, and people," Robert shared.

Since then, ISEP has gained international recognition for compliance with stringent ATEX and IECEx standards. The company’s IECEx CoPC training and certification services further empower clients to maintain safety protocols independently.

"We’re not just delivering products, we're building competence and resilience within industries," Robert added.

With a team of 50 professionals, ISEP continues to lead with innovation, technical excellence, and human capital—cementing its position as a frontrunner in explosion protection across Malaysia and the wider region.

Core Values Driving Sustained Success

At the heart of ISEP’s growth is a clear set of core values: Safety, Integrity, Innovation, and Collaboration. These principles are deeply embedded across all operations, client engagements, and strategic decisions.

"Everything we do starts with safety. But it’s our integrity, our drive to innovate, and our collaborative approach that set us apart—especially when tackling complex, high-risk projects," said Robert.

These values were instrumental in earning ISEP the Golden Bull Award 2025, a prestigious recognition of the company’s outstanding performance, ethical leadership, and commitment to industrial safety. The award affirms ISEP’s long-standing dedication to raising industry standards while delivering meaningful impact.

Integrity underpins every solution ensuring it is effective, fully compliant, and ethically delivered. Innovation enables ISEP to stay agile and forward-thinking in a fast-evolving industry, while collaboration builds strong, lasting relationships with clients, regulators, and stakeholders.

These guiding principles not only shape how ISEP executes projects, but also influence how it develops talent and expands regionally, further reinforcing its reputation as a trusted industry leader.

Sustainability as a Safety Imperative
ISEP integrates sustainability directly into its safety mission. By providing explosion protection solutions, the company helps prevent industrial incidents that could result in fires, toxic releases, or environmental harm.

Beyond compliance, ISEP promotes environmental sustainability through its support of ATEX and IECEx standards, reducing risks and advancing cleaner industrial operations.

The company also champions corporate social responsibility (CSR), offering IECEx personnel certification and safety awareness training to engineers and technicians. These initiatives help foster a culture of accountability while building future generations of safety professionals.

Internally, ISEP is reducing its environmental footprint through energy-efficient systems and streamlined logistics. These efforts extend its impact beyond business towards a safer, more sustainable industrial future.

Scaling Innovation and Regional Impact
Looking ahead, ISEP is executing a bold multi-year roadmap aligned with its mission of achieving zero explosions through innovation, education, and regional growth.

"We don’t just deliver products, we deliver knowledge. By equipping our clients with the right skills, we help create safer, more resilient workplaces," said Robert.

ISEP is expanding its IECEx CoPC training programmes and technical workshops across Southeast Asia. Concurrently, the company is investing in advanced explosion protection technologies with smart capabilities such as remote monitoring and predictive maintenance—key features aligned with Industry 4.0.

The launch of ISEP (Johor–Singapore) in 2025 will catalyse its expansion into Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia by 2026, and the Middle East by 2027. A licensed manufacturing facility is planned for 2028, followed by entry into China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Australia by 2029.

"Our goal isn’t just growth—it’s impact," Robert added. "Every step forward brings us closer to a safer, more harmonised industrial future."

ISEP is targeting RM100 million in revenue and a public listing by 2030, marking its transformation from regional leader to global force in explosion protection.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those seeking sustainable success, ISEP’s journey offers valuable lessons. According to Robert, the company’s achievements have always been rooted in purpose—not just profit.

"When your business is driven by vision and values, success becomes a natural outcome," he said.

He emphasises solving real problems, delivering meaningful solutions, and never compromising on quality or integrity. Investing in people and staying agile are also key.

"It’s not about being the biggest—it’s about making a meaningful impact and building a legacy that lasts."

To learn more about ISEP’s solutions and services, visit https://ise-p.com.my/

This series of Business Stories is in collaboration with the SME100 award.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.