Atlas Vending Malaysia achieve Guinness World Records with World’s thinnest reverse vending machine with a compaction system
The award was presented during a ceremony held by the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry.
SHAH ALAM - Malaysia’s leading vending solutions provider, Atlas Vending, has earned a spot in the Guinness World Records for creating the world’s Thinnest Reverse Vending Machine with a Compaction System, setting a new global benchmark in sustainable recycling technology.
The award was presented during a ceremony held by the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry, with an official Guinness World Record adjudicator present to verify the record-breaking achievement.
The launch was officiated by Malaysia’s Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, who unveiled the Atlas Ecopod together with Etika Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer Santharuban Thurai Sundaram and Etika Marketing Vice President Amy Gan. The Atlas Ecopod is a reverse vending machine designed to collect PET bottles and aluminium cans, built on the principles of efficiency, precision and user-friendly technology.
It has an ultra-slim profile measuring just 35cm in width, making it uniquely suited for modern urban environments and high-traffic public spaces. Equipped with AI-powered systems, it can sort, scan, and reward users with redeemable credits for recycling.
The machine joins a list of Atlas Vending’s innovative and sustainable offerings. With this recent GWR achievement, it further reinforces the company’s role in building a smarter, more sustainable Malaysia. Atlas Vending continues to drive innovation with a strong focus on accessibility and social responsibility.
Its machines now feature Braille-enabled interfaces for the visually impaired and wheelchair-accessible designs, underscoring its commitment to inclusivity The company has also partnered with the Economy Ministry on the Kempen Penyegar Dahaga RM1 campaign, offering affordable hydration options to the public.
In a separate initiative to combat period poverty, Atlas Vending collaborated with Bandar Tun Razak member of Parliament Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and Vinda Malaysia to introduce a card-access system that dispenses free sanitary napkins. The system is designed to prioritise user privacy and dignity, particularly for those in marginalised communities.
Santharuban said, “Achieving this Guinness World Record is a significant milestone for Atlas Vending. The Atlas Ecopod transforms recycling into an engaging experience, reflecting our relentless pursuit of sustainable innovation.
“This record elevates our status on a global scale while reinforcing our commitment to drive environmental change for all Malaysians.”
“We are grateful for Nik Nazmi and the Ministry’s presence here. Beyond validation, it is truly important and meaningful for us to do our part in supporting Nik Nazmi and the Malaysian government’s efforts for a greener Malaysia, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable practices that benefit all Malaysians," he added.
Nik Nazmi praised Atlas Vending’s contributions to Malaysia’s sustainability goals, saying, “This achievement extends beyond a corporate accolade. It forms part of a national initiative to accelerate the transition towards a green economy, in line with Malaysia’s commitments under Malaysia Madani, the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), the National Circular Economy Policy, and contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
He said the nationwide launch aligns with Malaysia’s Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021–2030 and the SDGs, asserting Atlas Vending’s commitment to integrating environmental responsibility with technological innovation.
The Atlas Ecopod builds on its Guinness World Record recognition with a seamless blend of compact design and full-function sustainability. It’s designed to fit anywhere and make recycling effortless, even in the tightest urban spaces.
It accepts both PET bottles and aluminium cans, compressing them efficiently with a mechanical compaction system that maximises storage capacity, while using sensors to ensure user safety. Behind its sleek frame is a smart, AI-powered system—IoT-enabled for real-time diagnostics, featuring brand-verifying barcode scanners to distinguish and reward recycling of Etika’s PET bottles and aluminium cans.
Further in the pipeline, Atlas Vending plans to deploy the first 100 Atlas Ecopod units nationwide, reinforcing its mission to drive positive environmental impact through innovation. The initial rollout of 50 units will begin in two months, with a target of reaching 100 units by end of the year.
In the initial rollout, consumers who recycle Etika beverage products will receive bonus reward points, creating a seamless connection between responsible disposal and everyday consumption.
The initiative reflects Etika’s deep commitment to a circular economy, bridging the gap between product use and recycling, and encouraging sustainable behaviour through incentives.
Following the launch, Atlas Vending invites corporate partners, building owners, developers and public institutions to adopt the Atlas Ecopod and be part of a nationwide movement towards more inclusive, efficient recycling. It offers a practical, space-conscious solution to reducing the carbon footprint, without compromising user experience or operational performance.
For more information on Atlas Vending and the Atlas Ecopod, visit https://www.atlasasia.co.
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