Robert Kek, President of the Malaysian Automotive Recyclers Association (MAARA), brings over 15 years of experience in the auto dismantling industry. With a strong commitment to sustainability, he has been instrumental in advancing Malaysia’s automotive recycling sector. Robert shares his journey, vision, and insights into the industry’s current state and future potential.
Building Expertise Across Related Industries
Before being appointed President of MAARA, I accumulated over 15 years of experience in the auto dismantling sector. This expertise extends beyond automotive parts and connects to industries like scrap metal, aluminum, copper, remanufacturing, and materials recycling, all of which are integral to the circular economy.
Driving Growth and Collaboration as MARRA’s Newly Elected President
I was honored to be elected by MAARA members as President during the 2024 AGM. My goal is to collaborate closely with the MAARA Committee to tackle key challenges facing Malaysia’s automotive recycling industry. We are also in the process of launching an investment company driven by interested MAARA members to support future growth and development in the sector.
Auto Recycling in Malaysia: Challenges and Consumer Access
Malaysia’s auto recycling ecosystem is still in its early stages and requires further development through the National Automotive Policy. The absence of End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) policy enforcement remains a significant hurdle.
Public awareness of recycled parts is also limited, though consumers can access these parts via online platforms or by visiting used parts dealers directly.
Key Developments in Malaysian Auto Recycling and MAARA’s Role in Industry Collaboration
The National Automotive Policy (NAP) 2020 outlines the National Roadmap of Automotive Aftermarket (NRAA), which includes plans to establish 21 Authorized Automotive Treatment Facilities (AATFs) by 2030. In March 2021, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change (NRECC) launched a pilot project for AATFs, which focus on dismantling deregistered vehicles and managing waste components for reuse, recycling, or disposal. Some of MAARA’s members are currently applying for AATF licenses. However, Malaysia still lacks mandatory regulations requiring vehicles to be scrapped or inspected after reaching a certain mileage or lifespan.
MAARA works closely with government bodies, particularly the Malaysia Automotive Robotics & IoT Institute (MARii), acting as a communication platform between the government and industry stakeholders to ensure policies support industry development. While engagement with insurers and manufacturers is less frequent, MAARA maintains ongoing collaboration with government agencies and workshop associations.
Commitment to Sustainability and Advancing the Circular Economy in Auto Recycling
MAARA consistently encourages its members to participate in international automotive recycling conferences, such as the International Round Table (IRT) and the Asian Automotive Environmental Forum (AAEF). MAARA has also hosted these events, including the 2011 AAEF in Genting Highlands, the 2016 IRT in Malacca, and the upcoming 2024 AAEF in Putrajaya. These forums provide valuable insights into global best practices for promoting sustainability and advancing the circular economy within the auto recycling industry, which MAARA then leverages to help members refine and enhance their business models.
Key Takeaways from the 2024 AAEF Conference: Fostering International Collaboration and Industry Growth
In May 2024, MAARA hosted the AAEF conference, receiving strong support from international affiliates, including JARA, KARA, ARAA, and CARIDC. The event facilitated cross-border collaboration, enabling associations from various countries to exchange valuable insights and knowledge. These gatherings foster international business networking, promoting shared growth and positive developments within the global automotive recycling industry.
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