As consumer and regulatory pressures mount to move away from plastic, Malaysia’s Materials In Works (MIW) and Jishan Berhad are taking bold steps to lead the region’s packaging transformation. Together, these companies are setting a new standard in sustainable packaging, making a significant impact on the industry.
MIW’s Core Innovation: RCP Technology
MIW’s core innovation lies in its Recovered Cellulose Pulp (RCP), a new raw material derived from previously unrecyclable label release liners. These liners, typically discarded as landfill waste, are now being upcycled into molded packaging trays with the help of Jishan Berhad’s industry-grade production lines. This breakthrough technology allows MIW to produce molded fiber packaging as a sustainable alternative to plastic.
“This collaboration is about scaling sustainability,” said John Ooi, Founder of MIW. “We’re proving that waste can be reengineered into durable, low-carbon products that meet the needs of modern industries.”
From Waste to Function
The RCP trays are designed as a drop-in replacement for expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) trays used in electronics, industrial tools, home appliances, and consumer goods. These trays are lightweight, shock-resistant, antistatic, and biodegradable, meeting key product protection standards while reducing material footprint. They provide an eco-friendly alternative that maintains quality and performance.
Collaboration with Jishan Berhad
Founded in 2000, Jishan Berhad is a major player in Malaysia’s packaging industry. The company manufactures high-quality paper and plastic packaging products, including corrugated cartons, die-cut trays, thermoforming trays, and stretch films. Jishan’s expertise in mold tooling and precision forming has helped MIW fast-track its product development, bringing Malaysia’s first commercial-grade circular molded tray to market.
“Our partnership with Materials In Works (MIW) marks a significant step forward — transforming difficult-to-recycle label release liner waste into high-performance molded fiber packaging. This collaboration not only diverts waste from landfills and lowers carbon emissions but also sets a bold precedent for sustainable manufacturing in Malaysia and across the region,” said Ng Eng Siong, Managing Director of Jishan Berhad.
Sustainability Practices at Jishan Berhad
Jishan is committed to sustainability, incorporating up to 60% post-consumer recycled content in its plastic products and using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified paper for its corrugated packaging. These sustainable practices contribute to reducing plastic waste and are in line with global sustainability goals.
Ng stated, “At Jishan Berhad, we believe the future of packaging lies in circularity and innovation.”
Building a Closed-Loop Supply Chain
MIW’s initiative goes beyond sustainable packaging production, it lays the foundation for closed-loop supply chains across Asia. A recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SATO Auto-ID Malaysia is focused on offering MIW’s liner upcycling solution to Japanese customers. This collaboration opens the door for Japanese brands operating in the region to participate in a sustainable alternative for managing glassine liner waste.
In parallel, MIW’s upcycling program is being expanded through its partnership with Uniqlo Malaysia, which supports the collection and diversion of pre-consumer label liner waste from retail supply chains.
Together, these initiatives exemplify MIW’s closed-loop approach to the circular economy, turning difficult-to-recycle waste into valuable Recovered Cellulose Pulp (RCP) and reintegrating it as sustainable molded goods in the packaging lifecycle.
Our partnership with Materials In Works (MIW) marks a significant step forward — transforming difficult-to-recycle label release liner waste into high-performance molded fiber packaging.
Ng Eng Siong, Managing Director of Jishan Berhad
MIW and Jishan Berhad at Expo 2025 Osaka
In 2025, MIW and Jishan Berhad will co-showcase their innovations at Expo 2025 Osaka, aiming to connect with brand owners, converters, logistics companies, and manufacturers committed to ESG-aligned procurement. This event will provide an excellent opportunity for both companies to showcase their commitment to sustainable packaging and circular economy practices.
“We’re not just launching a product—we’re launching a new industrial logic,” noted Ooi. “Together with Jishan Berhad, we’re making the circular economy practical, scalable, and profitable.”
“Together, we are redefining what’s possible in eco-conscious packaging,” added Ng.
Support and Global Recognition
The project has received support from Cradle Fund and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), and is underpinned by MIW’s 1-ton/day pilot facility in Johor.
MIW’s efforts have earned global recognition, including being named a Top 10 Innovator in Shell LiveWIRE International 2025.
Together with Jishan Berhad, we’re making the circular economy practical, scalable, and profitable.
John Ooi, Founder of MIW
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, MIW continues to refine its RCP technology to expand its capabilities and further reduce plastic waste. Jishan, with its proven track record in packaging, remains a key partner in providing eco-friendly solutions for a wide range of industries.
The collaboration between Materials in Works (MIW) and Jishan Berhad is a key development in the sustainable packaging movement. Through their joint efforts, they are reshaping the future of packaging by providing eco-friendly alternatives that meet the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable products. Their partnership shows that reducing plastic waste and adopting sustainable practices are not only possible but necessary for businesses in today’s world.
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