From Motors to Medicines: Malaysia’s Model for National Authentication

In October 2025, Malaysia fully implemented mandatory certification and labelling for engine oils as part of a national effort to combat the growing problem of counterfeit lubricants in the market. Before that, in 2005, Malaysia launched one of the world’s earliest nationwide pharmaceutical anticounterfeiting programmes, demonstrating the country’s longstanding recognition of the value of national authentication and supply chain control schemes.

The engine oil certification and labelling scheme was introduced by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), with SIRIM QAS, Malaysia’s leading testing, inspection and certification body, appointed as the competent authority.

Under the framework, all engine oils sold in Malaysia must be tested and certified by SIRIM QAS, and subsequently affixed with a SIRIM Conformity Label, which must show prominently on the oil container lid.

Failure to comply carries significant penalties, including fines of up to MYR 200,000 ($49,000) for companies, and MYR100,000 or up to three years’ imprisonment for individuals.