Malaysia’s Toling Corporation Partners with Polymateria to Advance Biodegradable Plastic Adoption in Malaysia

Malaysia’s Toling Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd has signed a strategic partnership with UK-based Polymateria Ltd to accelerate the national deployment of the company’s Biotransformation Technology, a scientifically validated solution that enables conventional plastics to safely biodegrade without leaving microplastics or toxic residues.

The agreement, formalised on 9 October 2025 in George Town, Penang, grants Toling Corporation exclusive distribution rights for Polymateria’s technology in Malaysia. The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from both the public and private sectors, including Penang Green Council (PGC) General Manager Josephine Tan and Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA) Northern Branch Treasurer Travis Tan, reflecting growing institutional support for sustainable plastics adoption.

Developed at Imperial College London, Polymateria’s Biotransformation process allows polyolefins such as PE and PP to fully biodegrade within two years if released into the open environment, while remaining recyclable throughout their intended use life. This dual functionality distinguishes the technology from conventional degradable or oxo-degradable plastics, which often fragment into persistent microplastics.

The system has been certified under SIRIM ECO 098:2023, verifying its environmental safety and performance standards. Products incorporating the additive are already being utilised by leading consumer brands in Malaysia, including ZUS Coffee, Kopi Kenangan, and Dunkin’ Donuts, primarily in cups, straws, cutlery, and film applications.

Under the partnership, Toling Corporation will leverage its nationwide distribution network and long-standing relationships with local manufacturers to promote large-scale adoption of the technology. The company said the collaboration aligns with Malaysia’s Plastic Sustainability Roadmap (2021–2030), which aims to reduce the 63% of plastic waste currently mismanaged across the country through innovation and improved waste management practices.

Toling Corporation, a major distributor of commodity and engineering plastics representing more than 15 global resin producers, said the partnership strengthens its role as an enabler of sustainable manufacturing in Malaysia.

For Polymateria, the agreement marks an important step in expanding its Southeast Asian footprint. Recognised as a World Economic Forum Tech Pioneer, the company has demonstrated through peer-reviewed studies that its Biotransformation technology supports circularity without compromising recycling systems or soil health.

Industry observers view the collaboration as a practical step towards integrating scientific biodegradation technologies into Malaysia’s plastics supply chain. With rising emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance and growing pressure on manufacturers to adopt sustainable solutions, the partnership could play a pivotal role in bridging industrial demand with national sustainability goals.

Written: Aiman Haikal