As quickly as you can, report the theft to The Royal Malaysian Police (RMP). They will give you a file reference number. Then, report the theft to us, including your police file number, via our stolen metals reporting page We’ll get the word out to recyclers in your region so if your items are presented for sale, they can intercept them. Any identifying information you can provide is extremely helpful. This may include markings, photographs (of the actual items or items that are similar), or serial numbers to help with identification.

It’s also very important that you report thefts promptly. Items may be presented for sale within hours of them being taken.

Metal recyclers must be licensed under the Second-Hand Dealers Act 1946. To ensure you are dealing with a reputable business, we recommend that you ask to see a copy of the dealer’s licence if it is not already displayed at the operator’s premises. This is particularly important when dealing with a mobile operator who collects materials directly from sellers.

The Secondhand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act requires a dealer to keep a record of all purchases which includes the seller’s full name, address, contact telephone number and date of birth and to verify the seller’s identity. It is common practice to ask sellers to produce their driver’s license for this purpose.

An auto dismantler will buy a vehicle so it can be disassembled and the parts harvested for re-sale. Any leftover metal is then usually sold to a recycler. Metal recyclers, on the other hand, will purchase a vehicle simply for the metal value alone and do not salvage parts for re-sale. Typically, a car is worth more for its parts than for its recycling value.

No. Under the provisions of the Privacy Act, recyclers are not able to disclose the personal details of a seller to anyone. The Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) have enforcement powers that enable them to ask for identification from recyclers to investigate thefts and to lay charges, where appropriate. Our Association works collaboratively with The Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) to help reduce metal theft. We want all victims of metal theft to file reports with The Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) to ensure investigations can be undertaken.