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MALAYSIAN INDIAN METAL TRADERS AND RECYCLERS ASSOCIATION
மலேசியா இந்திய உலோக வர்த்தகர்கள் மற்றும் மறுசுழற்சி சங்கம்
THE PIONEER ORGANISATION REPRESENTING THE MALAYSIAN INDIAN BUSINESSES GROUPS INVOLVED IN METAL AND RECYCLING INDUSTRY.
The Malaysian INDIAN Metal Traders & RECYCLER Association (MIMTA) is Malaysia’s national metal recycling association. Our diverse membership includes individual metal recyclers, large-scale processors, and end-users of recycled metals, with the majority of our members dealing primarily or exclusively in metals-non metals, auto spare parts, demolition, and hardware.
Industry Overview
The wider metals recycling industry in Malaysia consists of numerous businesses employing thousands of people. The industry processes approximately 10 million tonnes of materials annually, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals, paper, and plastics. This includes significant quantities of steel, aluminium, and copper. This involves recycling a wide range of products, such as end-of-life vehicles, packaging, batteries, domestic appliances, building materials, and electronic goods.
Economic Benefits
Metal recycling is a major global industry. Despite economic fluctuations, the manufacturing of metals continues to contribute significantly to the Malaysian economy. As national demand stabilizes, export markets continue to grow.
On average, Malaysia recycles substantial quantities of metal. Since Malaysia produces more scrap than is required domestically, a significant portion is exported worldwide. This contributes to Malaysia’s standing as a key player in the global metal scrap export market.
Membership Eligibility
Membership is open to Malaysian Indian, Non-Indian, and international metals recycling companies of good standing that have been in business for at least two years. Eligible companies must provide valuable services to the industry and possess a valid company registration, as well as the necessary licenses and permits from the relevant authorities.
MIMTA HISTORY
The Malaysian Indian Metal Traders and Recyclers Association (MIMTA) has a rich history rooted in the efforts to navigate the challenges faced by Malaysia’s scrap metal and secondary goods industry. The journey began in the early 1990s when the Malaysian government introduced new laws and regulations to regulate the industry. This period of change left the scrap metal business community needing guidance to comply with the new regulations.
During this crucial time, the former Minister, Tun S. Samy Vellu, suggested the formation of a trade association to represent Indian scrap metal traders. His proposal led to the establishment of the Malaysian Indian Metal and Old Goods Traders Association, with the support of the Kuala Lumpur & Selangor Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KLSICCI). The initiative was championed by Dato VKK Thiagarajan, who was the President of KLSICCI at the time.
MIMTA quickly grew to become a national association, representing Indian scrap metal businesses across Malaysia. Recognizing the need to represent traders from all 14 states in the country, the association officially rebranded itself as the Malaysian Indian Metal Traders and Recyclers Association on 15 April 1999, with approval from the Registrar of Societies.
Initially known as the Malaysian Indian Metal and Old Goods Traders Association, the organization continued to evolve under the leadership of then-President Y. Bhg. Dato Dr. C. Baskaran. With support from the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Indian Chamber of Commerce, the association underwent a significant rebranding effort, adopting a new name and logo, which the Registrar of Societies officially recognized on 24 March 2006.
Throughout the 1990s, the Malaysian scrap metal industry faced numerous challenges, including labor shortages and licensing issues that disrupted business activities. During this period, the country’s heavy reliance on foreign labor particularly affected Indian metal traders. However, with the guidance of Hon. Dato Seri (Tun) S. Samy Vellu, the association successfully secured approval to bring in Indian foreign workers. This move helped address many of the industry’s challenges, ensuring the survival and growth of Indian metal traders in Malaysia.
MIMTA was initially led by its first President, Mr. Krishnan Chettiar, who played a pivotal role in establishing the association. His successor, Mr. Gopal Chettiar, continued this legacy by representing the association in addressing industry challenges, particularly those related to the implementation of government regulations.
Following the formation of MIMTA, Dato Seri Krishnamoorthy successfully led the association through a transformative period. During his tenure, he effectively managed the challenges facing the scrap metal business amidst changing times. He was instrumental in addressing issues related to licensing and other matters, bringing them to the government’s attention for resolution. His significant contributions to MIMTA have left a lasting impact on the association’s legacy.
Today, MIMTA stands as a testament to the collective efforts of its founders and leaders, continuing to advocate for the interests of the scrap metal and recycling industry in Malaysia.
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MIMTA Milestones
In 2012, MIMTA proudly reached a significant milestone by purchasing its very own building in Kuchai Entrepreneurs Park, marking a new chapter in the association’s history. This accomplishment is not just a testament to our growth and stability, but also a reflection of the collective vision and determination that drives our organization forward.
The journey to owning our building was fueled by the dedication and strategic planning of the MIMTA team, who worked tirelessly to turn this vision into reality. The decision to invest in a permanent home for MIMTA was not made lightly. It was a visionary step aimed at solidifying our presence and ensuring that our association …
Functions of the Association
Work with government and local bodies on policies affecting metal recycling.
Promote cooperation and networking among members to solve common industry problems.
MIMTA is committed to enhancing the professionalism and sustainability of the metals recycling industry in Malaysia, providing invaluable support and resources to its members.
Promote the interests of the metal recycling industry.
Inform and educate the public about metal recycling.
Plan of Action
Economic Benefits
Our industry plays a vital role in contributing to the growth of the country’s GDP. We look forward to increasing GDP growth by cultivating our young generation into the metal recycling business.
Risk-Free Industry
We seek government endorsement to recognize the metal recycling business as a risk-free industry.
Green Environment
Metal recycling businesses are major contributors to a green environment, ensuring that materials are reused rather than wasted. We will ensure that the nation adheres to the benefits of recycling.
Environmental Sustainability
Our fellow businesses recycle 90% of industrial and household waste produced across the nation, transforming it into reusable products without the need to extract new minerals from the earth. This commitment not only supports environmental sustainability but also promotes a circular economy.
Foreign Labour
We will advocate for the government to provide a permanent solution for the supply of foreign labour according to a fixed ratio. We emphasize the need for parliamentary approval, as the scrap metal industry relies heavily on foreign labour due to the demanding and often dusty and dirty work environment. Establishing a permanent solution will ensure the stability and sustainability of our workforce.