Midwest Composites wins Grand Prize at MakiChalle 2024

Midwest Composites Sdn. Bhd., a Malaysian pioneer in sustainable composite materials, has claimed the prestigious Grand Winner title at the MakiChalle 2024 competition, held in Makinohara City, Japan. This victory comes with a ¥1 million cash prize (approximately MYR28,000) and marks a major milestone for the company in its pursuit of innovative sustainability solutions.

The MakiChalle, an annual event that highlights international contributions to global sustainability, is renowned for its ability to foster partnerships between innovators and Japanese industries. Midwest Composites stood out among 149 entries, including 40 overseas contenders, with its cutting-edge BioComposite technologies and commitment to environmentally conscious manufacturing.

“We’re deeply honored by this recognition and excited to collaborate with Makinohara City to drive innovation,” said Sethu Raaj, CEO of Midwest Composites. “This partnership strengthens our commitment to delivering green alternatives in materials science, and we are eager to bring our technologies to Japan, advancing our shared vision for a sustainable future.”

Collaboration to Drive Green Growth

The award not only celebrates Midwest Composites’ technological prowess but also opens doors to collaborative opportunities within Japan’s industry ecosystem. By working with local industries, including green tea farmers and automobile manufacturers in Makinohara, the company aims to expand its use of natural fibers and recycled materials tailored to Japan’s market needs.

According to Yoshito Denawa, CEO of CF Startup Partners, “The number of startups who applied for the event this year was 149 including 40 from overseas. The special feature of this event is that it competes for business plans that include specific collaboration proposals with local industries centered on the sponsors. For overseas startups, in addition to the chance to get the prize money, if the collaboration proposal is adopted, it will be a big first step in entering the Japanese market.”

This unique model of fostering partnerships has made the MakiChalle a global platform for sustainable innovation. For Midwest Composites, the victory aligns perfectly with its mission to reduce environmental impact across industries.

Leading the Way in Sustainable Manufacturing

Headquartered in Malaysia, Midwest Composites has gained international recognition for its development of bio-based materials and recycled plastic composites. The company integrates natural fibers and marine waste to create high-performance materials that are used in sectors ranging from automotive to consumer goods. These innovations significantly reduce carbon footprints and greenhouse gas emissions.

With the MakiChalle award serving as a launchpad, Midwest Composites is set to accelerate its journey toward creating a greener future, bringing Malaysian ingenuity to the forefront of global sustainable development.