In a major step toward a cleaner and greener future, ATLAS Vending, a subsidiary of Etika Sdn Bhd, has officially partnered with the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SW Corp) to expand Malaysia’s recycling infrastructure.
The partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in Cyberjaya, signifies a powerful collaboration between the public and private sectors aimed at embedding sustainability into everyday Malaysian life.
Under the agreement, SW Corp will adopt 50 ECOPOD units, the Guinness World Records-recognised world’s thinnest reverse vending machine (RVM) equipped with a can compaction system.
These innovative units will be strategically placed at wet markets, universities, hospitals, and Urban Transformation Centres (UTCs) — high-traffic areas where recycling can make the most impact.
Compact Design, Big Impact
What sets ECOPOD apart from other machines is its sleek, space-saving design. Traditional reverse vending machines (RVMs) usually require large spaces and separate areas for vending and recycling.
ECOPOD solves this problem by combining both functions in a single slim unit, making it ideal for crowded environments such as urban markets or hospitals.
Despite its compact build, each ECOPOD can crush and store up to 214 cans and 70 bottles per cycle, demonstrating how intelligent design can deliver both efficiency and environmental impact.
Its locally developed technology represents the best of “Buatan Malaysia” innovation — a homegrown solution built to address global challenges.
Recycling Made Rewarding and Simple
ECOPOD was designed with simplicity and user engagement in mind. Users can easily start recycling by entering their mobile number, making the process fast and accessible.
What’s more, those who recycle Etika products—like popular beverage brands—receive instant credits that can be redeemed on the spot for discounted drinks from the adjacent ATLAS vending machine.
This clever integration of recycling and reward systems transforms sustainability into an enjoyable experience. It encourages users to think of recycling not as a chore but as a daily act of care for the planet that comes with immediate gratification.
“As ECOPOD continues to evolve, our goal is not only to offer smarter solutions but also to inspire more Malaysians to change their habits,” said Santharuban T. Sundaram, CEO of Etika Sdn Bhd. “We want to raise awareness, improve recycling rates, and nurture a culture of sustainability for future generations.”
Public-Private Partnership for a Circular Economy
This collaboration underscores how private innovation and public support can work hand in hand to advance Malaysia’s circular economy goals. Ybrs. Tuan Khalid Bin Mohamed, CEO of SW Corp, described the partnership as “a model of smart collaboration between the public and private sectors to strengthen Malaysia’s recycling ecosystem.”
By integrating ECOPOD units into everyday environments, the initiative provides communities—especially youths and university students—with an interactive, hands-on platform to practice recycling.
It aligns with the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021–2030, which emphasizes sustainable waste management and citizen participation as key pillars for national progress.
Locally Built Innovation with Global Potential
Proudly designed and built in Malaysia, ECOPOD showcases how local technology can meet international standards. Since its initial launch in May 2025, ECOPOD has received strong interest from both corporations and communities for its space-efficient recycling model.
With over 100 units expected to be deployed within the first year, the MOU with SW Corp accelerates its expansion nationwide.
The collaboration represents more than just a business partnership—it’s a movement toward sustainable innovation. By placing ECOPODs in accessible community spaces, ATLAS and SW Corp are not only making recycling easier but also proving that small, consistent actions can lead to big environmental results.
Empowering Malaysians for a Greener Tomorrow
Both organizations share a vision of creating a recycling culture that lasts. By making recycling as convenient as grabbing a drink, ECOPOD bridges the gap between environmental awareness and real-world action.
“This partnership shows how Malaysia can lead through innovation and collaboration,” said Tuan Khalid. “With ECOPOD, we’re empowering every Malaysian—from students to market vendors—to take part in shaping a sustainable future.”
From wet markets to hospitals and universities, the ECOPOD rollout will transform how Malaysians interact with waste—turning everyday disposal into a positive force for change.
Together, ATLAS Vending and SW Corp are laying the groundwork for a future where recycling becomes not just a responsibility, but a way of life.
For more information on this collaboration, visit ATLAS Vending’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/atlasasia.co/.
Keywords :
- ATLAS Vending ECOPOD,
- SW Corp Malaysia,
- recycling Malaysia,
- sustainable living Malaysia,
- reverse vending machine,
- Etika Sdn Bhd,
- circular economy Malaysia
