SIRIM is the largest certification body in Malaysia that provides certification services to organisations worldwide. It also has partners in 37 countries, making its certification internationally recognised

Companies are encouraged to comply with international and national management system standards whenever feasible to spur sustainable development.

SIRIM QAS International Sdn. Bhd. Management System Certification Department Senior General Manager Mohd Hamim Imam Mustain says it is vital for organisations to comply and be certified with these standards to spur business growth.

He adds that certification not only allows organisations to show evidence that they are complying but also ensures that the management systems are maintained effectively.

SIRIM is the largest certification body in Malaysia that provides certification services to organisations worldwide. It also has partners in 37 countries worldwide, making its certification internationally recognised. He says the partnership will enable SIRIM to utilise over 22,000 auditors globally to facilitate its certification services.

"We offer a wide range of management system certifications, including Quality Management System, Occupational Health and Safety Management System and Environmental Management System," he says.

Mohd Hamim points out that the current management system standards developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) are risk-based and self-regulated. He says risk is something that has the potential to occur and it has to be managed effectively to prevent undesirable events.

"Prevention is better than cure. The ISO management system standards, which is a preventive approach, can avoid reputational damage and unnecessary waste of time and money," he notes.

To date, ISO has published a total of 22,467 standards to be used as a guide and framework for government, industries and consumers to contribute to the achievement of United Nation Sustainable Development Goals.

"For example, the Sustainable Development Goal Number 1 is No Poverty. The Anti-bribery management system standard (ISO 37001) supports business and governments to combat bribery and build a culture of business integrity. By inculcating a high-integrity culture, it helps reduce the wealth gaps that are a major cause of poverty," he says.

"SIRIM assists government agencies and private businesses to determine the right standards to be implemented, which are relevant to their business activities. With this, the certification would add value to their business," he says.

These standards were not only applicable to large organisations but small-and-medium enterprises also can comply with these standards and get certified.

"Therefore, any organisation whether large or small should leverage these certifications to be on par with international players," he says, adding that this would boost the country’s economy while promoting sustainable development.

Organisations can easily apply for certification via the SIRIM website: www.sirim-qas.com.my or applications can be sent via email to cserviceqas@sirim.my