Realising the automotive remanufacturing roadmap in Malaysia: challenges and the way forward

The main objective of this study is to provide a clear view on the actual implementation of automotive remanufacturing in Malaysia. Some suggestions of potential benefits contributed by the remanufacturing technology as well as some imminent hurdles faced in order to adopt this green development activity as aspired in the Malaysian Roadmap for Remanufacturing will be explored. A survey questionnaire had been distributed to three targeted groups of respondents namely government related agencies, car manufacturers and enforcement authorities. 38 of 100 surveys were returned. The result shows that even though the concept of remanufacturing has been highlighted in recent years, research and development in the area is still at the infancy stage. Remanufacturing initiatives in Malaysia had been driven by the growing awareness on environmental sustainability, alongside an internal push factor which is vehicle price imbalance due to the rising cost of material. These factors had become additional catalyst towards the establishment of nation's remanufacturing roadmap in the latest Malaysian National Automotive Policy (NAP2014). From the manufacturers' point of view, factors such as technical know-how, enforcement and cost implications to the end product will have a significant impact on remanufacturing implementation. Thus, a strategic and well planned programme need to be reviewed and researched carefully by all parties to ensure the effectiveness and its success. This is a targeted survey aimed at respondents of the automotive industry. Nevertheless, feedback from the local automotive industry experts contributes significant knowledge and information on remanufacturing which helps to trigger the related bodies to take the necessary measures in catalysing the growth of automotive remanufacturing in Malaysia through further research and policy optimization.