Ong presenting Tan (right) his long-service award at Steel Recon Industries’ 50th anniversary gala dinner.
AS Steel Recon Industries (SRI) celebrates its 50th anniversary, Tan Jee Yee can say he has witnessed all its ups and downs as he has been with the company since its establishment in 1974.
It was his unwavering love and passion for the craft that anchored him for an extraordinary five decades at SRI, Malaysia’s largest manufacturer of firefighting equipment.
“When I started with the company, I was 16 years old and was learning the trade.
“I did not finish secondary school but I found my calling as I was fond of the engineering element of my work,” said Tan, 66, a works director who oversees the production team and supports the research and development team.
The veteran employee was presented a long-service award during SRI’s 50th anniversary gala dinner in Kuala Lumpur.
“I enjoy my job a lot. This is especially true when I complete a project,” said Tan.
The gala’s theme, “50 years of Leading the Fight Against Fire”, reflected SRI’s dedication to safeguarding lives and its pivotal contributions to some of the world’s iconic landmarks, including Darling Harbour in Australia, Allianz Arena in Germany as well as Malaysia’s Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur International Airport 1 and 2, and the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX).
SRI founder and managing director Datuk Ong Yow Siang said he saw an urgent need to build a safer and more self-reliant Malaysia back in the 1960s.
“Firefighting equipment was entirely imported and they were expensive for property owners.
“This inspired us to establish SRI in 1974.
“Our early years were challenging but the industrial boom in the 1980s allowed us to harness local expertise and expand into manufacturing a full range of firefighting products.
“Now, I am proud to say that SRI has become a global player and a symbol of Malaysian innovation and resilience, dedicated to protecting lives and property both locally and globally,” said Ong.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming sent a video message congratulating SRI on its golden jubilee.
“Being the pioneer in Malaysia’s firefighting industry, SRI was the first to export firefighting equipment.
Above: Shang Sisters performing at the gala night.
“SRI also holds certifications and approvals from over 20 international regulatory bodies.
“I would also like to congratulate the recipients of the long-service award during the gala night,” said Nga while commending SRI for its commitment to protecting lives and properties over the past 50 years.
Thirty-four employees who have been with the company between 10 and 50 years were recognised with the long-service award.
Ong also presented a RM50,000 cheque to Persatuan Kebajikan Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat Malaysia as part of SRI’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility and community impact.
Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department director- general Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad congratulated SRI on its milestone anniversary.
“From a humble business to a global leader, SRI is a company we are proud to have a strategic partnership with.
“SRI has been the core sponsor of three recent conferences and has generously donated to the department.
“Firefighters embody the essence of timeless heroes, dedicating their lives to serving society with courage and selflessness,” he said.
Nor Hisham added that the department extended its deepest gratitude to SRI for their unwavering support and commitment to advancing fire safety standards, ensuring a safer future for everyone.
The gala dinner featured captivating performances, including a high-energy set by Malaysian rock legend Amy Search and a soulful act by the Shang Sisters.
