Hexza Corp's unit launches corn-based ethanol plant in Perak
In a statement today, Hexza said the new plant exemplified CIM's unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and the advancement of its operations through modern, circular production methods.
In a strategic shift from molasses to corn as its primary feedstock, it said CIM now produces ethanol through natural fermentation and distillation using high-quality corn.
A key byproduct of this process - Distiller's Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) - is repurposed into high-value livestock feed, reinforcing CIM's adoption of circular economy principles.
"This makes CIM the first manufacturer and supplier of locally produced DDGS in Malaysia, supporting both food security and sustainable agriculture,' said Hexza.
Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) chief executive officer (CEO) Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said the new facility exemplifies how circular economy principles can be turned into real economic value, optimising agricultural resources while creating new, high-impact downstream industries such as DDGS for livestock feed.
"It strengthens Malaysia's bio-based value chain, reduces import dependencies, and opens new frontiers for sustainable industrial growth,' he said.
Meanwhile, InvestPerak CEO Mohamad Hashim Abdul Ghani said CIM has had a long-standing presence in Perak and the latest expansion into corn-based ethanol production not only reflects the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability but also reinforces the state's position as a preferred destination for high-value and future-ready investments.
"The plant signified how strategic investments in bio-based industries could contribute meaningfully to the state's industrial growth, job creation and advancement of a circular economy,' he said.
At the same time, Hexza executive director Foong Leon Chiew said the corn-based ethanol plant is an important milestone and strategic investment for CIM, as it reinforces its position as the leading producer and supplier of ethanol and DDGS in Malaysia, and a strong commitment to sustainable production.
CIM's new facility is designed with high environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards in mind, focusing on minimising waste, responsible sourcing, and reinvesting in the local community to ensure long-term sustainable development.
CIM has a rich legacy as Malaysia's first ethanol producer, having commenced operations in 1962, and offers a wide range of ethanol products, from 96 per cent to absolute ethanol, meeting the needs of diverse ethanol end-users.
Its product portfolio also includes natural vinegar (through wholly owned subsidiary Bio-Acetic Products Sdn Bhd) and now DDGS, further diversifying its market reach.
In 1994, it became one of the first in the sector to achieve prestigious MS:ISO9002 certification, in accordance with the British Pharmacopoeia standards. - Bernama
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