In a region known for rapid growth and ever-changing trends, some companies have been quietly doing business for over a century — and they’re still going strong.
From colonial times to the digital age, these businesses have survived wars, economic shifts, and generational changes. They’ve adapted, evolved, and remained relevant through it all. Whether in logistics, manufacturing, or retail, these long-standing names are more than just companies — they’re living pieces of Southeast Asia’s history.
Here’s a closer look at the oldest companies in the region that are still in operation today
1. Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc. (Philippines)
Founded: 1850
Brief History: Established by Lim Tua Co, a Chinese immigrant later known as Don Bonifacio Limtuaco, Destileria Limtuaco is the oldest distillery in the Philippines. The company has built a strong reputation for its wide range of alcoholic beverages, including rum, gin, and whisky.
Industry Sector: Alcoholic Beverages
Economic Contribution: As the country’s oldest liquor producer, Destileria Limtuaco plays a significant role in the Philippine beverage industry and contributes to the export of locally made alcoholic products.
2. Myanmar National Airlines (Myanmar)
Founded: 1948
Brief History: Myanmar National Airlines (MNA), the country’s state-owned airline and national flag carrier, was founded in 1948. Since its inception, the airline has operated under several different names and is headquartered at Yangon International Airport.
Industry Sector: Air Transportation
Economic Contribution: As the national airline, MNA connects various regions across Myanmar and supports the development of both tourism and business sectors.
3. B.Grimm (Thailand)
Founded: 1878
Brief History: Founded by German pharmacist Bernhard Grimm and his Austrian partner Erwin Mueller, B.Grimm started as Siam Dispensary — the first modern pharmacy in Thailand. Since then, the company has grown into a multinational conglomerate with operations in sectors such as energy, industry, and healthcare.
Industry Sector: Energy, Industry, Healthcare
Economic Contribution: Through its diversified portfolio, B.Grimm has made substantial contributions to Thailand’s infrastructure development and healthcare services.
4. Vietnam Railways (Vietnam)
Founded: 1881
Brief History: Vietnam’s first railway line, connecting Saigon and Cholon, was built in 1881 during the French colonial era. Since then, the railway network has significantly expanded and plays a vital role in the country’s national transportation system.
Industry Sector: Rail Transportation
Economic Contribution: As a backbone of national mobility, Vietnam Railways facilitates the movement of goods and passengers, contributing directly to the country’s economic development.
5. Singapore Post (Singapore)
Founded: 1819
Brief History: Established in the same year Singapore was founded by Sir Stamford Raffles, Singapore Post has grown from a basic postal service into a leading provider of logistics and e-commerce solutions in the region.
Industry Sector: Logistics and Postal Services
Economic Contribution: SingPost plays a crucial role in communication and commerce, supporting both local enterprises and international trade through its logistics network.
6. Electricité du Laos (EDL) (Laos)
Founded: 1959
Brief History: Electricité du Laos (EDL) is a state-owned enterprise established in 1959 and headquartered in Vientiane. It is responsible for the production, distribution, management, and development of electricity across Laos.
Industry Sector: Electric Power
Economic Contribution: EDL has been instrumental in national electrification, supporting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for communities across Laos.
7. Hua Ho Department Store (Brunei)
Founded: 1947
Brief History: Founded by Lau Gim Kok in 1947, Hua Ho began as a small store and has since grown into one of Brunei’s most well-known and largest department store chains.
Industry Sector: Retail
Economic Contribution: Hua Ho contributes significantly to Brunei’s retail sector by offering a wide range of consumer goods and generating employment for the local population.
8. National Bank of Cambodia (Cambodia)
Founded: 1954
Brief History: Established shortly after Cambodia gained independence from France, the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) succeeded the Institut d'Émission des États du Cambodge, du Laos et du Viet-nam. NBC is responsible for managing monetary policy, regulating banks and financial institutions, and overseeing the national currency, the riel. During the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979), the financial system was dismantled and the bank ceased operations. NBC was reestablished in October 1979 and has continued to function as the central bank of Cambodia ever since.
Industry Sector: Banking and Finance
Economic Contribution: As the country’s central bank, NBC plays a crucial role in maintaining Cambodia’s economic stability through the implementation of monetary policy, banking regulation, and oversight of the national payment system.
9. PT Pindad (Persero) (Indonesia)
Founded: 1808
Brief History: PT Pindad originated from a weapons workshop established in 1808 in Surabaya by Governor-General Herman Willem Daendels, known at the time as Constructie Winkel (CW). It was intended to produce, maintain, and repair Dutch military equipment. Over time, the facility underwent several transformations and was relocated to Bandung in 1932 under the name Artillerie Inrichtingen (AI). After Indonesia’s independence, the facility was nationalized and became known as the Weapons and Ammunition Factory (PSM). It officially adopted the name PT Pindad (Persero) on April 29, 1983.
Industry Sector: Defense and Manufacturing
Economic Contribution: PT Pindad plays a critical role in supplying defense equipment to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and other security agencies. In addition, it manufactures industrial products such as heavy machinery and vehicles, contributing significantly to Indonesia’s manufacturing and infrastructure sectors.
10. Pos Malaysia Berhad (Malaysia)
Founded: Early 1800s
Brief History: Postal services in Malaysia began in the early 1800s in the Straits Settlements of Penang, Melaka, and Singapore. Initially used for sending letters, documents, and newspapers, the service expanded over time to include parcel delivery, registration services, insurance, and financial transactions such as postal money orders and savings. In 1992, the service was privatized and became Pos Malaysia Berhad, which was later listed on Bursa Malaysia in 2001.
Industry Sector: Postal and Logistics Services
Economic Contribution: As Malaysia’s national postal operator, Pos Malaysia plays a vital role in the country’s communication and commerce landscape. With over 926 branches and mini post offices nationwide, it facilitates the delivery of mail, parcels, and related services, supporting both business operations and everyday needs across the country.
