Johor bahru: Starting from experience in the hospitality industry, a husband-and-wife team has successfully built a competitive air conditioning business through NM Aircond Sdn Bhd since February 2014.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, NM Aircond chief executive officer Masitah Mohd Afandy, 36, said the decision to venture into entrepreneurship was made after she, who was then working at the front desk, and her husband, Nik Nazri Abidin, 39, who was in the hotel housekeeping department, faced time constraints due to irregular work schedules. Masitah, affectionately called Masyi, who is visually impaired (OKU), said the selection of the air conditioning industry was based on the sector's 'evergreen' potential.
She noted that around 2012, air conditioning use in Johor was predominantly seen as a 'necessity' among the M40 and T20 groups, while the B40 group did not view it in the same way. However, Masitah and her husband were confident that within five to six years, air conditioning would become a necessity for all. At that time, many Malay contractors were focused on large-scale projects, which she described as a 'red ocean' due to intense competition. This realization led them to enter the 'blue ocean' market by focusing on the residential segment.
Masitah explained that with approximately 760,000 homes in Johor Bahru, Gelang Patah, and Pasir Gudang, they identified a significant opportunity for growth. To build their business foundation, her husband gained technical experience while she worked as a clerk. After gaining relevant field experience, they launched their company on February 26, 2014.
She highlighted that success in the air conditioning industry, particularly in the residential market, requires patience as profits are not immediate. Their perseverance paid off, achieving their first sales milestone of RM1 million in their fifth year. Currently, the company employs about 23 staff members.
Despite facing challenges, including a road accident that resulted in Masitah losing her sight in March 2023, she has remained steadfast in leading the company alongside her husband. She emphasized the importance of having a skilled workforce, hiring graduates from technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, and maintaining a professional approach in customer interactions.
Masitah also shared the company's plans for expansion through the 'Aircond Express' brand, which will serve as the main platform for developing their franchise model. NM Aircond will remain the parent company. She revealed a unique governance approach involving leadership transitions every 10 years, allowing internal staff opportunities to lead as part of their legacy continuity plan. By June 30, 2026, the company's two executive directors will be appointed as owners, while she and her husband will transition to advisory and shareholder roles.