Malaysia is a major exporter of timber to South Africa. The Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) recently appointed Muhtar Suhaili as the new CEO. In the aftermath of Covid-19 the Malaysian timber industry faces many challenges, but it is not all gloom and doom, Suhaili tells Timber iQ.
Muhtar Suhaili, new CEO of the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC). Image credit: MTC
The Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) was established in January 1992 to promote the development and growth of the Malaysian timber industry globally. According to Suhaili, MTC’s main objectives are to promote the Malaysian timber trade and to develop the market for timber products globally, to promote the development of the industry by upgrading the industry’s manufacturing technology base and to augment the supply of raw materials. “Furthermore, MTC will aim to provide information services and to protect and improve the Malaysian timber industry’s global image,” says Suhaili.
Suhaili, 39, who has a master’s degree in petroleum technology from Curtin University of Technology, Australia, and a bachelor’s degree in mechatronics engineering from the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM), is currently pursuing his doctoral degree (PhD) in business administration.
Prior to joining MTC, Muhtar was the lead project engineer in Shell Malaysia where he worked for 15 years, and with Perodua Auto Corporation Sdn Bhd prior to that. He is also the chairman of Malaysian Palm Oil Certification Council (MPOCC).
Muhtar has extensive knowledge in managing mega projects, business planning, business improvement initiatives, manpower planning and human resource development. Having work exposure in The Netherlands and Germany, he also has experience in managing engineering design offices.
“I highly believe with his vast experience and knowledge within various industries and multinational organisations, Muhtar will be instrumental in enhancing MTC’s efforts in bringing the Malaysian timber industry to greater heights,” says MTC chairman Tuan Haji Mazli Zakuan Mohd Noor.
A humanitarian at heart, Muhtar has devoted much of his time in voluntary social work which centres on education and healthcare issues, among others. He has also presented papers and spoken at international arenas on industrial development and people empowerment, especially the youth. In an exclusive interview with Timber iQ, Suhaili tells us about the challenges and opportunities for the timber industry in Malaysia.
For the full interview read the February issue of Timber iQ.
