Bitumen is one of those underrated products which plays an important role in our everyday lives, yet is virtually forgotten by most people. Over two-thirds of global bitumen production is used in the construction of the roads and highways that we use every day. The balance is mainly used to water-proof homes and offices, as well as to provide protective coating for the pipes that carry water into our homes.

The increasing concerns over global climatic changes coupled with the crisis brought about by escalating crude oil prices in recent times have brought into sharp focus the need for industries to put into place sustainable development as a key direction in new product development initiatives.

JOHOR BARU: Bitumen Bale Sdn Bhd is expanding by setting up the world's first bitubale packaging plant in the pelepas Freezone. Managing director Gordon W. Thomas said it was the "right time" for the company to expand and that the Pelepas Freezone was the pecfect choice due to its strategic location.