Kuala Lampur, May 1 -- The first rubber tyre factory was built in the United States in 1889. Not sure when the first one was erected in Malaysia but they certainly ramped up production before the Great War since Malaya was the world's largest producer of natural latex.

Ups and downs, over a hundred years. Even when our neighbours had more rubber trees and plantations, manufacturing was synonymous with Malaysia.

Unfortunately, this May Day, the 950 employees at the Continental tyre factory in Alor Setar have to explore other career options since it ceases operations end of 2025.

The German company in its media statement this week explained it was "adapting to changing customer demand, the company seeks to optimise its local product port...