Deputy minister urges textile industry players to use better, comfortable materials for attire
THE textile and fibre industries should develop comfortable and affordable school uniforms suited to Malaysia’s hot climate, a deputy minister says.
Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin said rising temperatures due to climate change were making current school uniforms increasingly uncomfortable for students, adding that the materials used had remained largely unchanged for decades.
“The industry in Malaysia must think about how to produce better and more comfortable clothing suitable for our climate, while keeping costs affordable for families,” he said after attending the 15th Asian Chemical Fiber Industry Federation (ACFIF) conference in George Town, Penang.
Sim said Asian countries currently dominated the global fibre and textile market, accounting for more than half of the industry, but intense competition among regional players had compressed profit margins.
“We in Asia have many countries competing against one another, and this competition has made the industry less profitable.
“That is why collaboration is important,” he said.
Sim urged the textile and fibre industries to invest in research and development (R&D), and strengthen environmental standards to remain competitive.
He said companies could work with universities to drive innovation and develop more environmentally-friendly materials.
He emphasised that environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards had become increasingly important, particularly for companies seeking access to developed markets such as Europe.
“Industries are focused on business, so they need to collaborate with universities to produce better quality materials that meet ESG standards.
“We need better quality products that are more comfortable and suitable for consumers, while moving up the value chain.”
Sim said the fibre industry faced scrutiny over pollution linked to chemicals and microfibres entering rivers and seas.
“We cannot continue to pollute the rivers and pollute the sea.
“The industry must find solutions to create a more sustainable environment,” he said.
