From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership
Datuk Seri (Dr) Subramaniam Pillai is the Co-Founder and Group Executive Director of Dhaya Maju Infrastructure (Asia) Sdn Bhd (DMIA), a leading engineering, railway, infrastructure, property, and energy company in Malaysia. A self-made entrepreneur, he began his career at 30 and established DMIA in 1996 with just five employees. The company’s first contract involved constructing an access road to the Ebor toll plaza and upgrading Batu Tiga Road under the Elite Expressway package 1A.
.jpeg)
Transforming Malaysia’s Road and Rail Networks
Celebrating 28 years in business, DMIA has grown to over 900 employees, completed more than 203 projects, partnered with 407 subcontractors, and earned 26 industry awards. The company has contributed to key infrastructure projects, including sections of the Central Link KLIA Expressway, Rail Link to West Port, the Electrified Double Tracking Project from Rawang to Ipoh, slope rehabilitation along the North-South Expressway, and the West Coast Expressway. As the main contractor for Klang Valley Electrified Double Track Project (KVDT) Phase 1 and Phase 2, DMIA continues to play a crucial role in upgrading Malaysia’s railway infrastructure.
Embracing Change in the Infrastructure Industry
Under Subramaniam Pillai’s leadership, DMIA reported RM1.08 billion in revenue for 2023. He acknowledges that the industry has evolved, becoming more technology-driven, sustainable, and client-focused. To adapt, he has fostered a culture of innovation, agility, and continuous learning within the company. DMIA has also invested in cutting-edge railway track machinery such as S2PV, TRT, and Panel Lifters—exclusive to DMIA in Southeast Asia—enhancing efficiency and precision in rail projects.
Expanding Beyond Malaysia
DMIA’s success extends beyond Malaysia, with the company completing major infrastructure projects in India since 2001. These include six major expressways across Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, as well as the Malaysian High Commission Complex in New Delhi.
Industry Accreditations and Certifications
Committed to maintaining the highest standards, DMIA holds PKK Class A and CIDB G7 Contractor status, allowing it to undertake projects of unlimited value. The company adheres to ISO MS 1722:2011, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 9001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 standards. Additionally, its PETRONAS SWEC licenses support expansion into the energy sector.
Venturing Into Energy and Property Development
With its PETRONAS SWEC licenses, DMIA has entered the energy sector through its subsidiary, One Richfield Sdn Bhd, focusing on oil and gas projects. The company has also expanded into property development under DMIA Land (M) Sdn Bhd, amassing approximately 500 acres of landbanks in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Negeri Sembilan, with a total gross development value exceeding RM5 billion. Notably, DMIA is developing PPAM Brickfields, a high-rise residential project for civil servants featuring two 41-story towers and 913 units in Kuala Lumpur.
Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Sustainability
Reflecting on his journey, Subramaniam Pillai cites navigating economic downturns as a major challenge. He successfully steered the company through uncertain times by implementing cost-efficient strategies, diversifying projects, and enhancing operational efficiency. Sustainability remains at the heart of DMIA’s operations, integrating green building techniques to minimize environmental impact while meeting global standards.
Leading a Multi-Generational Workforce
As a leader, Subramaniam Pillai fosters an inclusive work culture where employees across generations feel valued. He prioritizes mentorship, open communication, and leadership development, ensuring young professionals have opportunities to take on significant roles early in their careers. Through hands-on experience and structured development programs, he continues to shape the next generation of industry leaders.
