Chemical Industries (Malaya) Sdn Bhd (CIM), a subsidiary of Hexza Corporation Bhd, has launched its advanced corn-based ethanol facility in Persiaran Tasek, Ipoh, a major step forward in the company’s pursuit of growth, innovation, and sustainable industrial practices.
This new facility reflects CIM’s continued dedication to quality and sustainability through the adoption of modern, circular production technologies.
The origins of CIM date back to the 1960s, when Malaysia was in the early stages of industrial development. At the time, Datuk Dr Foong Weng Sum, a medical doctor turned entrepreneur, envisioned ethanol as a key industrial input, not just an ingredient in alcoholic beverages, reported Business Times.
As the founder of Hexza, listed on Bursa Malaysia since 1979, Dr Foong played a pioneering role by establishing CIM, which became Malaysia’s first and largest ethanol producer.
“I saw ethanol playing a critical role across industries, not only as a production input but also as a biofuel. My goal was to help position Malaysia as a key player in the ethanol and chemical sectors,” Dr Foong said.
Established in 1962, CIM has built a strong legacy as Malaysia’s pioneering ethanol manufacturer. Today, it remains the country’s largest producer by capacity and is the only one using corn as a feedstock, a shift that highlights its progressive and sustainable approach.
Foong Leon Chiew, executive director of Hexza and the eldest son of Dr Foong, explained that CIM previously used molasses for ethanol production. This year, however, the company transitioned to a corn-based system with a new plant capable of producing up to 10 million litres annually.
“This facility not only strengthens CIM’s leadership in Malaysia’s ethanol market but also demonstrates our commitment to circular economy principles,” he said.
The plant uses high-quality corn sourced from Brazil and Argentina, processed via natural fermentation and distillation. A significant by-product of this process, Distiller’s Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), is converted into premium livestock feed, reducing reliance on imported feed and supporting food security and sustainable agriculture.
CIM is currently the only domestic producer and supplier of DDGS in Malaysia.
“This upgrade is about more than boosting output, it reflects a sense of responsibility,” said Foong, who holds an engineering degree from Oxford University and an MBA from the Wharton School. He previously worked in investment banking for 17 years in Hong Kong.
CIM offers a broad range of ethanol products, from 96% industrial-grade ethanol to absolute ethanol, catering to industries such as pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, personal care, food, and beverages.
