KUALA LUMPUR: Amid market uncertainties, and oil and gas industry volatility, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are finding it a challenge to survive and maintain their competitiveness in a demanding business landscape.
However, standing strong, tall and resolute despite the ever-evolving environment is Gissco Sdn Bhd, a company with significant achievements and even bigger dreams of elevating its stature to a more prestigious level in the oil and gas industry.
Gissco's beginnings
Founded in 1975 by Mohammad Rashid, General Industries Services Cooperation or better known as Gissco has grown from a small company of 35 employees supplying offshore food and beverage services to a significant player in Malaysia's oil and gas industry with a diverse range of offerings.
Based in Kuala Lumpur, the company now stands strong with a RM30 million revenue and almost 500 employees nationwide, with branches in Miri, Labuan, Kemaman and Brunei.
Gissco operation director Shahrul Azni Shahruddin believes that the company's first footprint in oil and gas opened the door to diversification, allowing it to attain the knowledge and capacity to venture into the maintenance and specialised sectors of the industry.
"One of the earliest contracts that we received came from the offshore catering services, which required the lowest technical expertise, but this paved the way for the company to focus on slick line services since 1989," he said in an interview with the New Straits Times.
Growth and Progress
Citing market demand as its reason for expansion, Shahrul attributes the company's growth to the vision of its founder, Rashid. Based on their experience as one of Petronas' vendors, he also likened Gissco's expansion to that of Petronas, starting as a young establishment that blossomed under the stewardship of visionary leaders.
He recalls one of Gissco's earliest experiences in the late 1970s, having been awarded one of its first contracts as a young company.
"I remember Rashid having to source for a chef, groceries and sort orders within just two days. He went to buy groceries and send them to sea. He managed to deliver the job on time," he said.
The family-run company is now led by Mohd Khoirul Kamal Mohammad Rashid as the managing director, charting the direction for the team to move forward more clearly and boldly, with more offerings such as aviation refuelling services, non-destructive testing and manpower, personal protection equipment (PPE), hardware and engineering supplies.
"Our expansion and success are a testament to the vision of our founders, as well as the dedication and loyalty of our team," said Shahrul.
According to him, Rashid, who was born and raised in Miri, Sarawak, wished to realise the potential of Malaysians and equip them with the necessary skills by providing adequate field experience in the oil and gas services and equipment (OGSE) sector.
"Rashid's dream was to empower Malaysians in the industry and establish a training school for future generations.
For Gissco's workforce itself, we prioritise training, making it a requirement for them to complete at least one programme per year. This industry is evolving and we do not want our workforce to be stagnant," Shahrul said.
Partnership with Petronas
Gissco's partnership with Petronas began in 1983, when they were awarded the contract for wireline services — a joint venture with Expro UK — and production operation maintenance services for the Duyong Field in Terengganu.
Reflecting on beginning together, Gissco director Umaira Mohammad Rashid recalls how the company would submit tenders for contracts with Petronas, even for small tasks such as supplying office stationery.
She said the continuous collaboration with Petronas was a significant milestone in their journey, allowing Gissco's employees to adhere to industry best practices.
"Through contracts, we were able to gain insights and knowledge from Petronas. We leveraged this knowledge to upskill our employees and enhance their expertise to navigate the ever-challenging industry landscape," Umaira added.
She expressed appreciation for the important role Petronas has played in providing opportunities for Gissco to thrive amid the demanding technical requirements of the field.
"Petronas recognises the relentless dedication and passion shown by its ecosystem of partners, collaborators and talents towards progress.
"Having existed in the industry for almost 50 years, Gissco has had to adapt to the advancements in procurement technologies and competition for large-scale projects and tenders. Through frequent sharing of information and awareness sessions, Petronas has been a great support in helping us to progress," she said.
Gissco celebrates its 49th anniversary this year, just a year shy of Petronas. Gissco's presence in the industry has marked almost half a century of resilience, agility and significant contributions to Malaysia's oil and gas sector.
Culture of unwavering values
The company's success is deeply rooted in its culture of integrity, safety and quality.
"From the time Gissco was established, we have always focused on providing top-notch services while maintaining the highest standards of readiness.
Gissco's unwavering focus on safety has been central to its operations", Shahrul said.
The company has implemented rigorous safety measures and protocols, aligning with industry standards to ensure the well-being of its employees and clients.
"Our commitment to safety is crucial in serving the oil and gas industry. We prioritise the well-being of our employees, customers and the environment," he said.
This approach has resulted in long-serving employees, some of whom have been with Gissco for more than 20 years.
Embracing technology and innovation
Moving forward, Shahrul shared that Gissco plans to embrace technological advancements, including artificial intelligence (AI), to increase efficiency and competitiveness.
"We are looking to develop initiatives that minimise paperwork. We have worked on applications using smartphones to receive orders, update project progress and manage certifications, approvals, and invoicing.
"AI would help with operational problems like choosing candidates for tenders. An AI system could manage the information, checks and background verification, increasing efficiency and accuracy," he said.
Hopes for the future
Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead, Gissco is committed to forging forward by seizing opportunities in achieving its aspirations of becoming the leading service provider in the OGSE industry.