Disruptr: Sia Ban Ian, Founder of Bactakleen
What inspired you to start the business?
- I wanted to address a problem that was omitted by all disinfection industry players which is to disinfect air conditioning systems for cars and buildings.
What has the journey been like?
- It was very challenging in the beginning as most people in Malaysia had very little knowledge and did not see a serious need for such products at that time. After being persistent in promoting the idea of the product it started to gain traction locally but our main break came when we attempted to export the product to neighbouring countries such as the Philippines and Thailand.
- Our product were much better receiving in these countries than Malaysia.
Biggest achievement and what is the one regret that you wish you had or had not done?
- Biggest achievement was securing a worldwide deal with Toyota and exporting to over 50 countries around the world including countries like Japan and Canada. We are also the first Malaysian disinfection producer who tested our products to kill Covid-19 in a US laboratory. We regret not exploring the export market earlier.
Where do you see yourself in the next 1 year?
- We will be aiming to grow our brand further in the next 1 year by introducing more products to cover more applications areas.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
- Start small production facilities in North America and possibly in India to reduce costs.
What keeps you going to keep running the business?
- We strive to be one of the top brands in the world in our industry and we focus strongly on innovation and being different from our competitors.
What is one local startup you would like to work together with and why?
- We are working with SEERS Berhad to promote post Covid-19 recovery treatments. Many people suffered health problems from Covid-19 and we are able to provide non-invasive, drug-free treatments to improve people’s health.
Who is one founder (local or international) that you look up to?
- Elon Musk, he is innovative, sharp and dares to be different.
Why should investors invest in your business?
- We do not follow other competitors; we carve out our own path and have been able to successfully export our products to over 50 countries. We are the only Malaysian disinfection product producer to achieve this. We are ISO9001 certified and have won multiple business awards.