Malaysia Imports RM3.53 Billion In Tyres To Meet Demand

Malaysia spent RM3.53 billion on tyre imports last year to keep up with an annual demand of about 22 million units. But once they wear out, millions risk ending up as waste.

Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin says that’s exactly what the government wants to avoid. 

“We’re finding ways to give old tyres a second life,” he told Parliament.

The Malaysian Rubber Board (LGM) is leading the charge with research into recovered carbon black (rCB), a product made through thermochemical processes that can replace the conventional carbon black found in almost all rubber goods. 

Switching to rCB, Chan said, would be a major step toward a more sustainable tyre and rubber industry.

Other projects focus on reclaiming rubber from used tyres for use in bitumen, road surfacing, bricks, mats, and footwear.

Backing these ideas, the Malaysian Rubber Council is funding greener manufacturing under its Automation and Green Technology programme, plus grants for tyre-based innovations through the Industry Linkage Fund 2.0 and Commercialisation Fund.
One standout is a new precast wall panel made with rubber crumb. Still in testing, it’s designed to keep out heat, resist fire and block noise, turning old tyres into building blocks for a greener future.