For Ellen Lum, business was never something learned from textbooks or classrooms—it was learned through responsibility. From a young age, she was actively involved in supporting her late father and brother in the daily operations of the family business, gaining first-hand exposure to the realities of entrepreneurship in a demanding and traditionally male-dominated industry.

These early experiences taught her the importance of discipline, accountability, and perseverance. More importantly, they instilled a deep appreciation for the commitment required to build and sustain a business over the long term. Those values continue to guide her leadership philosophy today.

From Family Support to Business Leadership

As the years progressed, Ellen’s role expanded beyond operational support. She developed a deeper understanding of how businesses are structured, how they evolve, and what is required to ensure sustainable growth across generations.

Her professional experience in a public-listed corporate environment from the late 1980s until 2024 further strengthened her expertise in governance, systems management, and strategic planning. These experiences provided valuable insights into leadership, risk management, and building organisations that can withstand changing market conditions.

A defining milestone came in late 2024 when she and her team took over the business. For Ellen, the transition represented far more than a change in ownership. It was a commitment to continue the legacy built by her family while preparing the company for its next phase of growth.

The journey remains deeply personal. It is about honouring her late brother’s contributions, supporting the next generation, and leading alongside a dedicated team that has grown with the company through the years. Every decision is guided by a commitment to continuity, stability, and long-term value creation.

Building Trust Through Experience and Reliability

Heap Wah Barakah Sdn Bhd, established in 1978 and incorporated in 1984, has evolved from a small trading business into one of the region’s trusted suppliers in the piping and plumbing industry across Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

With more than four decades of industry experience, the company has built a reputation for quality, reliability, and continuous innovation. A significant milestone was its expansion into water supply and infrastructure projects in 2018, strengthening partnerships with water authorities nationwide and reinforcing its role in supporting critical infrastructure development.

Today, Heap Wah Barakah continues to grow through an extensive product portfolio, efficient logistics capabilities, and strong operational systems. What differentiates the company is its ability to combine deep industry knowledge with adaptability, delivering dependable solutions while maintaining long-standing relationships built on trust, consistency, and long-term partnership.

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.

From Family Business to Industry Leader

Ellen Lum started her entrepreneurial journey at just 19, stepping into her family business without a university degree. Today, Heap Wah Barakah Sdn. Bhd. stands as a symbol of quality and reliability in Malaysia’s plumbing and water infrastructure industry.
Learn more about Heap Wah Barakah: Heap Wah Barakah Official Website

Lessons Learned from Early Success

Ellen’s early business moves included selling her family’s shares in 1994, making millions but losing control. Determined, she bought back full ownership, turning the company into a true representation of her perseverance and vision.