Japan Pulp & Paper (M) Sdn Bhd was established as a dynamic joint venture between S.K. Guan and publicly listed Japan Pulp & Paper Co. Ltd. in Japan.
Following decades of growth, the next generation is now taking the reins. Japan Pulp and Paper Malaysia is in a position to continue its legacy with a fresh perspective to perpetuating the success of the company.
Trading tradition: The paper trail
Helming the company since he was 26 years old, S.K. Guan has transformed Japan Pulp & Paper Malaysia into a premier trading and distribution center for paper, paperboard and paper-related materials in Malaysia.
“Today, countries are closely interconnected,” Guan said. “While we celebrate the remarkable achievements in Malaysia, we are extremely grateful for the enduring partnership with Japan as close partners in business,” S.K. Guan said.
By employing a combination of acquisitions and organic expansion, the company caters to a wide range of customers, demonstrating its goal of becoming a versatile trading and distribution hub that adapts to contemporary demands, such as the sign and display market.
Sustainable energy initiatives
Recent diversification has seen the incorporation of Ovol New Energy Sdn Bhd, spearheaded by Bryan Guan. This new venture is dedicated to renewable energy, specializing in the collection, processing and export of palm kernel shells and wood pellets as biofuel to Japan and Korea.
“Expanding the business into the biomass sector is a natural step to diversify from paper and forestry products. Japan’s government mandate provides incentives for the establishment of biomass power plants. In response, our Japanese counterpart has set up their own biomass power plants, which formed a sustainable relationship for our procurement of biomass fuel from Southeast Asia,” Bryan said.
With numerous stockyards spread across Malaysia, the company currently supplies over 20 biomass power plants in Japan.
Nucleus of economic growth
Southeast Asia stands as a prime hub for economic advancement. The Guan family holds a central role in the creation of a sustainable business network within the region, forging connections between suppliers and clients both within and outside the region. This is a testament to what can be achieved when tradition meets innovation.
Family matters
Through their close collaboration as father and son, the Guans seamlessly infuse innovative solutions that align with their shared values to move the company forward with a strategic focus.
“Our vision is to grow the business and ensure the group becomes No. 1 in Malaysia; we look forward to starting this new chapter, spreading our wings and growing regionally,” Bryan concluded.
