ASEAN UNECE-ADR BRIEFING: STRENGTHENING CHEMICAL SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE IN MALAYSIA

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 18 (Bernama) -- In a fundamental effort to further enhance the safety and productivity of the chemical and related sector in Malaysia, the Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC), through its Chemical Productivity Nexus and in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), successfully hosted the ASEAN UNECE-ADR Briefing on 7 October 2024. The event attracted nearly 100 participants, including industry leaders, government officials, and representatives from chemical associations, who discussed the vital need to align with the UNECE-ADR standards to boost safety protocols, facilitate cross-border trade, and strengthen Malaysia’s competitiveness on the global stage.

The programme featured comprehensive discussions on the UNECE-ADR framework, which establishes internationally recognised safety standards for the transportation of hazardous materials. It also emphasised crucial training initiatives, such as Dangerous Goods Driver Training (DGDT) and Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA) certification, which are essential for ensuring compliance and promoting safer industry practices.

In his opening address, Datuk Hanafi Sakri, Deputy Secretary-General (Industry) MITI, quoted the Chemical Industry Roadmap (CIR 2030), which aims to raise the sector’s gross value added (GVA) from 3.4% to over 4.5% by 2030, potentially contributing an additional RM40 billion to the Malaysian economy. He also presented certificates to ten participants of the Dangerous Goods Driver Training – Train the Trainer (DGDT-TTT) programme, recognising their key role in advancing safety standards within the industry.

"Implementing the UNECE-ADR framework is not just a regulatory obligation; it is a strategic imperative for Malaysia’s economic growth and regional leadership," he said.

Zahid Ismail, Director-General of MPC, echoed this sentiment, noting, "Our collaboration reflects a strong commitment to enhancing safety protocols in the chemical industry. By prioritising training and compliance, we protect our communities and position Malaysia as a leader in the global marketplace".

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