When a water pipe bursts, the first thing you need is a quick, reliable solution. That’s where the products from Heap Wah Barakah Sdn. Bhd. come in — ensuring there’s no water leakage, no interruption, and no compromise in quality. Behind this trusted name stands Ellen Lum, the Managing Director of Heap Wah Barakah, a visionary leader who has built her company with resilience, innovation, and an unshakable spirit of harmony.
From Family Business to a Malaysian Industry Leader
Ellen Lum’s entrepreneurial journey began early. At just 19 years old, she stepped into the business world without the luxury of a university education. “I didn’t have a chance to go to university,” Ellen recalls. “I had to join the family business.” That decision marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the world of plumbing materials and water infrastructure solutions.
Heap Wah Barakah Sdn. Bhd. today stands as a symbol of quality and reliability. The name itself holds deep meaning — “Heap Wah” means harmony, while “Barakah” is a Malay word meaning blessing. This combination perfectly reflects Ellen’s philosophy: building a business grounded in balance, unity, and gratitude.
The company provides a wide range of plumbing materials and water infrastructure products, many of which are certified under SPAN, Malaysia’s National Water Services Commission. “If you look at the roadside, you’ll probably see some of our products,” Ellen says proudly. “My products are visible everywhere.” From urban construction projects to rural water systems, Heap Wah Barakah’s products form part of Malaysia’s essential water supply network.
Lessons Learned from Early Success
Ellen Lum’s journey wasn’t without setbacks. In 1994, driven by ambition and opportunity, she sold the family’s shares to a listed company. “At that time, I thought I was making a big move,” she reflects. “I made millions in a single day, and I was not even 30 years old.” But what seemed like success soon turned into regret.
By giving up her shares, Ellen realized she had also given up control, responsibility, and a piece of her legacy. “It was a setback,” she admits. “I had to share profits with others, and I no longer had full ownership of what my family built.”
Determined to reclaim what she lost, Ellen worked tirelessly until she was able to buy back the company’s shares, restoring full ownership and control. That moment marked the true rebirth of Heap Wah Barakah, symbolizing perseverance, vision, and redemption.
Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry
Working in the construction and plumbing industry — a field long dominated by men — posed its own challenges. Ellen had to prove herself through hard work, integrity, and leadership. “I had to learn from the ground up,” she shares. “I want to be known as a woman in power because there are not many women who hold this kind of position.”
Her success has become a beacon for women entrepreneurs across Malaysia. She encourages others to be tough, resilient, and confident in pursuing their dreams. “Now is the era where women are in power,” Ellen asserts. “To me, rejection is only a setback. Nothing can stop you if you have the heart and the vision to grow.”
Embracing Technology and the Next Generation
Despite her traditional business roots, Ellen Lum is far from old-fashioned. She embraces modern tools and works closely with Gen Z talent to bring fresh perspectives to Heap Wah Barakah. “I’m learning new things from the younger generation every day,” she says with a smile. “I even do TikTok videos now!”
Her team in charge of digital marketing and e-commerce has been instrumental in transforming the company’s branding and outreach. “They’ve made me proud,” Ellen adds. “Their creativity and ideas bring innovation to the industry.”
She’s also committed to modernizing the company’s internal systems. “We’re upgrading everything to AI-based systems,” Ellen explains. “The next big thing is to invest in talent — the Gen Z generation is full of ideas and energy.”
A Legacy of Perseverance and Vision
Ellen Lum’s philosophy in business is simple yet profound: never be impulsive, stay patient, and handle challenges one step at a time. Her long-term goal is for Heap Wah Barakah to go public (IPO), securing its place as a leading name in Malaysia’s water infrastructure industry. More than that, she hopes to pass the company to her children — ensuring that the Lum family legacy continues for generations.
“I made my millions before I was 30,” Ellen says, “but that’s not my destination. My journey is still a long way to go. I want to be someone who is honoured, and I want my legacy to be remembered.”
From a young woman thrust into business at 19 to a respected industry leader, Ellen Lum’s story is one of courage, learning, and empowerment. Her leadership at Heap Wah Barakah Sdn. Bhd. proves that harmony, hard work, and heart can turn challenges into blessings — and build a business that truly stands the test of time.
