Benefits of Using FSC® Certified Printing in Malaysia
When we want to sell a product, the first thing we must highlight is its benefits. Consumers want to know what makes a product different from others — its Unique Selling Point (USP).
For example, Mercedes-Benz is known for driving comfort. Volvo is all about safety. BMW gives the joy of driving. Toyota is famous for reliability. Every vehicle has its own strength, and it depends on the type of customer.
It’s the same with printing. FSC®-certified printing has its own USP — sustainability. But in Malaysia, many companies still don’t want to use FSC®, mostly because the printing cost is slightly higher.
Why FSC® Printing Is Still Not Popular in Malaysia
FSC® printing has been around for more than 30 years. But in Malaysia, only a small number of companies are using it. Why? Because most businessmen focus on profit, and FSC® printing can cost a bit more.
Malaysian consumers also don’t usually ask about what type of paper or packaging is used — as long as the product price is low, they are happy. So, companies don’t feel the pressure to use eco-friendly materials.
Government also does not give much support. Other countries around the world also don’t really promote FSC® strongly. Some don’t even believe that deforestation is the main cause of global warming.
Most Malaysians don’t know what FSC® means. Only international companies that follow their overseas office rules are using FSC® materials in Malaysia.
But if we don’t start making changes, global warming will become worse, and we will all suffer. That is why FSC® printing is important and needs more support in Malaysia.
What Does FSC® Stand For?
FSC® stands for Forest Stewardship Council®. A non-profit group that promotes responsible forest management all over the world.
When you receive a brochure or a packaging box with the FSC® logo, it means the paper comes from responsible sources — either a well-managed forest or recycled paper. It also means the printer follows strict environmental and social standards.
Since 1994, FSC® has certified over 200 million hectares of forest. They make sure the forests are managed fairly and that the workers and local communities are respected.
To get FSC® certified, forests must follow these important principles, such as:
• Following the law and agreements
• Protecting the rights of Indigenous people
• Supporting the well-being of workers and communities
• Protecting the forest’s animals and plants
Benefits of FSC® Certified Printing
1. Protecting Our Forests
Every year, around 15 to 18 million hectares of forest are destroyed — almost the size of Bangladesh. That’s about 2,400 trees cut down every minute.
Forests are very important. They give us oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide, and help balance the climate. If we continue cutting trees without control, we are damaging the Earth and our future.
By using FSC®-certified printing, companies are helping to protect forests by choosing paper from responsible sources.
2. Certified Environmental Practices
To become an FSC®-certified printer, a company must pass strict checks. They must show that:
• Paper and packaging come from trusted, sustainable sources
• Waste is recycled properly
• Ink is disposed of in an eco-friendly way
It’s not a one-time check. Every year, FSC® printers must go through audits to make sure they still follow the rules. FSC® certification is not just a logo — it means the company is serious about protecting the environment.
3. Competing in the Global Market
Visit high-end supermarkets like Jaya Grocer, Village Grocer, or Ben’s Independent Grocer, and you’ll notice many imported products use FSC®-certified packaging box.
Brands from Australia, USA, and Europe use FSC® to show that they are responsible and care about the environment. This helps customers trust them more.
So, for Malaysian companies that want to export products or enter international markets, using FSC® printing is a smart move.
4. Improving Brand Image
After the COVID-19 pandemic, more consumers are looking for eco-friendly products — from detergent to skincare and body wash.
Many brands now highlight that their packaging is recyclable or eco-safe. Using FSC® printing is one easy way to make your product stand out and attract these customers.
When consumers see the FSC® logo, they know your company is doing something good for the planet.
Making FSC® as Common as the Recycle Symbol
We can see the recycling symbol everywhere — from dustbins to plastic bags and packaging box. Even small children know what it means and remind adults to recycle.
Imagine if FSC® became just as recognisable. If we start using FSC® printing on schoolbooks, brochures, and packaging, more people will get curious and learn what it means.
That’s how we grow awareness. Step by step, more Malaysians will recognise FSC® and understand why it’s important — just like they do with the recycling symbol today.
Conclusion
At Uniquelink, we are proud to be an FSC®-certified printer. But we believe more printers in Malaysia should also apply for FSC® certification.
This will help promote FSC® printing nationwide and lead to better practices in paper sourcing, waste management, and ink disposal.
In the end, it’s not just about printing. It’s about creating a healthier, safer planet — for us and for the next generation.