Chemicals Advance Materials – Rubber Products

The rubber products industry in Malaysia boasts a rich history and is a major player on the global stage. The nation ranks seventh in natural rubber production and eighth in consumption. Malaysia’s manufacturing focuses on three categories: tires, industrial rubber products, and consumables such as gloves and shoes. The industry is significant for exports, with synthetic rubber, medical gloves, condoms, and catheters being major contributions. Despite challenges like reduced demand from Asia, the industry is poised for growth, particularly in automotive components, engineering applications, and consumer products. Looking forward, the global industrial rubber forecasts a CAGR of 3.7% during 2023-2028.

In 2022, despite challenges, the demand for rubber products, especially gloves and catheters, remained robust. The industry aims to tap into high-end product manufacturing, plastic recycling, and sustainability through efforts such as the East Coast Latex Corridor, digitalisation via the My Rubber Online platform, and the RRIM Niaga smartphone application. Collaborative research ensures innovations that meet stringent international standards.

The Malaysian Government supports the industry’s growth through favourable policies, multilateral engagement, and infrastructure development. Rubber’s significance is emphasised in the National Automotive Policy (NAP) 2030, with the plan to extend rubber’s use in road construction and new value-added products. Malaysia cooperates with Thailand and Indonesia under the International Tripartite Rubber Council to stabilise rubber market prices. The industry is aligning with ESG trends, and companies like Mölnlycke Health Care are proactively working on sustainability initiatives. The NAP 2030 outlines thrusts for quality, sustainable rubber production, urging adoption of Industry 4.0 and green practices.