KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is focusing on transforming used tyres into valuable resources as part of its strategy to develop a circular and sustainable economy.
Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Chan Foong Hin said during the Minister Question Time that his ministry is spearheading the initiative aiming to harness recycled rubber to create environmentally friendly products and reduce waste.
"Malaysia imported various tyres valued at RM3.53bil in 2024, with local consumption estimated at 22 million units annually.
"Without recycling, millions of these tyres would become waste," he said in response to a question by Datuk Ahmad Amzad Mohamed@Hashim (PN-Kuala Terengganu).
Chan noted that the Malaysian Rubber Board (LGM) is researching innovative uses for recycled tires, such as Recovered Carbon Black (RCB), obtained through a thermochemical process.
"RCB can serve as a sustainable alternative in rubber production, significantly contributing to the industry's sustainability," he said.
Research is also underway to explore the potential of using recycled rubber in various applications, including road paving, bitumen additives, rubber mats and footwear, he said.
"The use of recycled rubber in these areas not only provides economic value but also aligns with our environmental goals," Chan added.
To support these efforts, Chan said the Malaysian Rubber Council (MRC) offers pre-commercialisation funding and industrial collaboration opportunities to develop and market innovative products derived from used tyres.
"The MRC also promotes automation and green technology in the rubber industry to enhance efficiency and competitiveness."
To an additional question from Ahmad Amzad and Khoo Poay Tiong (PH-Kota Melaka), Chan acknowledged the challenges in waste management and the importance of expanding the use of recycled rubber in public and private projects.
"The oversight of waste management falls under the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry.
"Coincidentally, my minister is also overseeing this ministry now. I think we can look at these issues more comprehensively," he said, referring to Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani who has been tasked with temporarily overseeing the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry.
Chan emphasised the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders, including research institutions and industry players, to ensure the effective commercialisation of recycled tyre products.
"By working together, we can unlock the full potential of recycled rubber and contribute to a sustainable future," he said.
