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Increasing consumer demand, technological advancements, and globalisation have driven the Malaysian flat glass market over the last few years. Sustainable and eco-friendly practices, innovative products, and enhanced distribution channels all contributed to this growth. In addition, digital platforms and e-commerce have significantly expanded market access, enabling businesses to reach multiple customer segments. The industry has also thrived on strategic collaboration and mergers. The Malaysia Flat Glass industry is set for continued growth amid changing consumer demands and technological advances, which will offer new opportunities to stakeholders and make a significant impact on the global economy, writes Jahir Ahmed.

Insulating glass units (IGU) have various opportunities in today’s market, driven by environmental awareness and energy efficiency regulations. It is becoming increasingly clear that traditional construction materials have extensive environmental impacts, which makes the use of IGUs a desirable option for architects, builders, and homeowners looking for sustainable design options. Further, the market will benefit from the rising adoption of smart glass technologies. According to Rohan Gunasekera, residential retrofitting and new construction represent a substantial market segment. Commercial applications, including offices and retail spaces, will also see robust growth in the insulating glass units market, highlighting the diversity of opportunities.

The advancement of manufacturing technology has enabled thin-walled lightweight glass containers. It is now more common for container glass producers to use narrow-neck-press and blow instead of blow-and-blow. With lightweight glass technology, container glass manufacturers can produce glass bottles that are both stronger and more stable than their previous heavier versions. A steady increase in container glass demand has been recorded in the GCC region over the past few years due to the 10 state-of-the-art container glass producers within the region. A review of the lightweight container glass production landscape in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, which has embraced this product type is presented by Yogender Singh Malik.

The term Vehicle-Integrated Photovoltaics (VIPV) describes the comprehensive integration of photovoltaic modules into vehicles. When connected to electric loads or the drive battery in electric vehicles, these PV modules blend naturally with the exterior. In the United States and the European Union, VIPV is having serious consideration, especially in freight transport and buses, even though none of the auto-majors have yet tested a solar-powered car. Increasingly, solar energy is being used in vehicles, especially trucks, which are subject to stricter emissions legislation, as well as cars with roof top solar panels, primarily to provide ancillary power, reports Rohan Gunasekera. Watch this space for more on this exciting technology.

Agr International products and services are designed to improve the quality assurance, productivity, and efficiency of manufacturers of glass, plastic, and related containers. In an exclusive interview with Asian Glass, Sudha Jebadurai, president of Agr International, discusses the company’s recent acquisition by Indicor as well as future plans for both companies.