CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow hailed MEP Enviro Technology Sdn Bhd as a Penang success story, highlighting its global expansion and continued investments in the state as the company celebrated its 20th anniversary at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC) tonight.
He said reaching two decades in business was no small feat, noting that while longevity in government is often regarded as a policy success, MEP Enviro’s milestone clearly reflected business success.
“As Chief Minister, I always enjoy evenings like this — especially when they involve Penang-born companies that have done well, gone global, and still remember where they came from.
“MEP Enviro Technology started its journey in 2005 and, over the past two decades, has grown into a recognised total waste management company on the global stage. What I appreciate most is that even as MEP expanded overseas, it continued to bring investments and projects back home to Penang. That is the kind of success story we like — grow globally, but don’t forget Penang,” he said.
Chow highlighted that MEP once again demonstrated its confidence in Penang last year by opening a RM100 million Recovery Plant in Bukit Minyak.
“This is not just a big number; it also shows long-term commitment. In today’s economic climate, confidence like this is worth celebrating,” he said.
He also congratulated MEP Enviro Technology, better known as MEP, and TANAKA Precious Metal Technologies Co Ltd on the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Saturday evening, following a courtesy visit a few months earlier during which plans were shared to establish a 4N Precious Metal Refinery Facility in Penang.
“At that time, it sounded ambitious. Tonight, I’m happy to say — it is no longer just a plan. It’s happening.
“The MoU signing marks a major milestone, leading to the first production of 4N, or 99.99 per cent purity, precious metals made in Malaysia and refined right here in Penang. This is something Penang can truly be proud of — high value, high technology and high standards,” he said.
Chow noted that TANAKA Precious Metal Technologies is a global leader with more than 100 years of experience and the only company in Asia accredited by the London Bullion Market Association for industrial precious metals.
“When a company like this chooses Penang, it tells us very clearly that we are doing something right,” he added.
He said the investment aligns well with Penang’s push towards the green and circular economy, as well as the state’s goal of moving further up the value chain, stressing that Penang seeks industries that are clean, responsible and innovative.
“Penang welcomes responsible players. But those who think they can turn Penang into a dumping ground — sorry, wrong address. We support growth, but growth must come with integrity, proper regulation and respect for the environment.”
Chow said MEP’s 20th anniversary was not only a celebration of business success but also a reminder of the need to balance innovation with sustainability done the right way.
Meanwhile, Sean Ong said the refining facility will be located at the Batu Kawan Industrial Park, with construction expected to commence in the second quarter of 2026 and an estimated completion period of 18 months.
He expressed MEP’s sincere appreciation to TANAKA for its positive consideration of investing its advanced 4N (99.99 per cent) precious metal refining technologies and expertise in Malaysia.
“This establishment is expected to mark a major milestone for both companies and for the region,” he said.
Sean added that the facility will provide a comprehensive one-stop recycling ecosystem for precious metals, encompassing recovery, refining and remanufacturing.
“This initiative supports the advancement of the circular economy, which remains a key contributor to Penang’s manufacturing industry,” he said.
The 20th anniversary dinner was vibrant and lively, featuring an impressive pole lion dance performance, followed by a cultural dance. A live band later entertained guests.
As part of the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts, Sean, on behalf of MEP, presented a mock cheque for RM50,000 to SJKC Kuang Yu, represented by its chairman of the board of directors, Datuk Goh Kim Heong.
Long service awards were also presented to several employees, while a table draw and best-dressed awards added to the excitement as the celebration drew to a close.
Also present were Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, FMM Penang Branch chairman Datuk Seri Lee Teong Li, Consul General of Japan in Penang H.E. Machida Shinya, MEP Enviro Technology adviser Datuk Norshida Ibrahim, MEP Enviro Technology directors Datuk Ivan Ong and Joe Ong, and TANAKA Precious Metal Technologies director & Corporate officer (Sales Management Department) Yasutaka Ihara.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix & Video by Alissala Thian