The year 2025 marks one hundred years of excellence in Malaysian rubber research, during which the Malaysian Rubber Board (MRB) formerly known as the Rubber Research Institute (est.1925), has successfully transformed the rubber industry from an basic farming sector into a global industry.
Over the past century, the MRB has driven key innovations, including the introduction of Standard Malaysian Rubber (SMR), the development of high-yielding clones, and chemical/physical enhancements to natural rubber (NR). These innovations have been commercialised into products like Ekoprena® and Pureprena®, as well as advanced engineering applications such as seismic rubber bearings and road technology (RRIM EcoSprint, CMB).
On the global stage, Malaysia leads in standard setting through the development of international ASTM and ISO standards, alongside a strong commitment to sustainability via the MSNR scheme. Supported by world-class research infrastructure, including TARRC in the UK, Malaysia is now poised to enter a new century that is even more competitive, innovative, and sustainable in rubber science and technology.