Soap making novice

My motivation level to make "home-made soap" is at the highest level now. I have now gone through several books and e-books, websites, pointers and tips on how to make soap at home.
I have identified tools needed and ingredients needed. Past few days was spent on locating where to source the materials for soap.

All but one has been found. As I'm living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, I find it to be difficult in locating lye. I went to hardwares, bakery supplies and pharmacy but could not find lye. The problem is it seems that no one here have ever heard of "lye". The closest to lye that I had came across is some liquid drain cleaners which are mix of sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite. I'm not sure whether this can be used for making soap or not. Anyone out there can help me on this?

Nevertheless, I'm determined to find the elusive lye. Probably will try to contact some chemical supplier tommorrow. This is only a small obstacle isn't it? I will have my home-made soap ready for use by middle April (need to cure them first).