SIRIM QAS International enforces compliance with the MS 224 standard, ensuring that only retreaded tyres meeting strict safety criteria are on the roads.
AT first glance, they look like any other tyres – stamped with the familiar SIRIM mark, a supposed seal of quality and safety. But beneath the deceptive label lies a dangerous truth.
Recent crackdowns by Malaysian authorities have exposed a troubling trade in counterfeit-certified retreaded tyres, churned out in illegal factories and sold to unsuspecting drivers.
These substandard tyres, never tested or approved, pose a silent yet deadly risk on the roads – prone to sudden failure, with the potential to turn an ordinary drive into a catastrophic accident.
The real cost
In 2019, the Works Ministry reported that up to 10,000 accidents were attributed to these tyres, many of which failed to meet national safety standards.
While properly certified retreaded tyres can be a safe and cost-effective alternative to new ones, the presence of uncertified products in the market poses a significant risk to motorists.
Inferior materials can compromise structural integrity, leading to premature failure and heightened accident risks. Untested tyres may not perform well under road conditions, affecting grip, braking, and stability.
Keeping roads safe
SIRIM QAS International – a conformity assessment body under SIRIM Berhad and the competent authority appointed by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN), is on a mission to ensure that every retreaded tyre rolling onto Malaysian roads is safe by calling for the strict compliance to MS 224: retreaded pneumatic tyres.
Certified retreaded tyres go through a detailed inspection process, including pressure testing and quality checks, to guarantee top safety and performance standards.
The retreading process itself involves a thorough casing inspection, buffing, bonding, and curing to restore the tyre’s structural integrity, ensuring it’s as good as new.
When compliant with MS 224 standards, these tyres deliver impressive safety and performance, offering a cost-effective, eco-friendly option that doesn't compromise on road safety.
To maintain certification, SIRIM monitors products both at the factory level and in the market. As part of their market surveillance programme, certified tyres are randomly pulled from the market for stringent testing, ensuring ongoing compliance.
Any manufacturer caught cutting corners faces immediate suspension or has their license terminated.
Identifying genuine SIRIM-certified retreaded tyres
To combat the rise of counterfeit tyres, SIRIM QAS International has outlined key identification markers for consumers and authorities:
> SIRIM logo and certification number: All certified tyres must display an official SIRIM logo and unique licence number.
> Manufacturer’s name or brand: Only licensed manufacturers are authorised to use the SIRIM mark.
> Date of retreading: This indicates when the tyre was processed and certified.
> Technical specifications: Includes details such as tyre size and load rating.
For added security, consumers can verify the legitimacy of a retreaded tyre by entering its certification licence number on www.malaysiancertified.com.my.
This database provides detailed information on the manufacturer, factory location, certified product list, and the validity of certification.
To battle counterfeit retreaded tyres, consumers should look for the SIRIM logo, certification number, manufacturer and retreading date.
The road to safer tyres
For businesses seeking to comply with MS 224, SIRIM QAS International provides expert guidance on obtaining certification. The process involves:
- Submitting an application via the ESCIS portal at escis.sirim.my or the SIRIM QAS International website.
- Undergoing factory audits and product testing – to ensure compliance with MS 224 safety standards.
- Receiving a SIRIM product certification licence – upon successful evaluation, the product is officially recognised as roadworthy.
- Public registration – certified manufacturers and products are listed here on Malaysian Certified for public verification.
Ahmad Sabirin said meeting the MS 224 standard for retreaded tyres ensures safety beyond compliance.
SIRIM Berhad president and group chief executive officer Datuk Ahmad Sabirin Arshad reinforced the organisation’s commitment to road safety.
“Ensuring that retreaded tyres meet the MS 224 standard is not just about regulatory compliance; it is about prioritising the safety of all road users.
“SIRIM remains committed to upholding the highest standards in product certification to protect consumers and enhance industry credibility,” he said.
The way forward
Road safety is a collective responsibility and ensuring compliance with MS 224 isn’t just a recommendation – it’s a necessity. A quick verification check can mean the difference between a smooth ride and a fatal accident.
SIRIM QAS International is calling on consumers and industry players to report any suspicious products or misuse of the SIRIM mark.
These reports can be submitted through their official communication channels, helping to crack down on fraudulent practices.
For more information on MS 224 certification and consumer safety, visit https://www.sirim-qas.com.my/
