Stamford Tyres and Falken commemorated their golden jubilee of partnership with a grand celebration on 9th September 2025 at The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The evening brought together industry partners and distinguished guests for a gala dinner that reflected the strength of the five-decade collaboration and its continued impact on the tyre industry.

In his remarks, Ivan Reijan, General Manager of Stamford Tyres Malaysia Sdn Bhd, emphasised the significance of the evening. He noted that the celebration marked three key milestones: the enduring 50-year partnership with Falken, the launch of the new WildPeak A/T4W and WildPeak R/T01, and the recognition of loyal partners through the Dealers Appreciation Awards. He acknowledged that the achievements would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of partners past and present.

Adding a nostalgic touch to the evening, the organising committee encouraged guests to don 1970s-inspired attire, a tribute to the decade when the Stamford Tyres–Falken partnership first began. In her address, Dawn Wee, Executive Chairman of Stamford Tyres Corporation Limited, warmly appreciated the vibrant outfits and reflected on the significance of the milestone. She paid a heartfelt tribute to her late husband and founder, Wee Kok Wah, while reaffirming the Wee family’s commitment to carrying forward his legacy with passion and purpose.

A Vision for the Future

Dawn also expressed gratitude to Satoru Yamamoto, President & CEO of Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI), who was represented at the event by Yukio Yoshida, General Manager, Asia and Oceania Region Department, SRI, the Falken team, and the dealers for their unwavering support, noting that their partnership has been central to Stamford Tyres’ growth into a global distribution leader. Looking ahead, she highlighted the development of a new integrated facility in Kapar, Selangor, a strategic consolidation of operations designed to boost efficiency and better serve the region. Slated for completion by end-2027, the project reflects the company’s long-term commitment to growth, resilience, and a shared future with its partners.

In his speech, Yoshida said it was an honour to join the celebration and commended Stamford Tyres for hosting the launch of the new WildPeak pattern. Reflecting on his time overseeing the Asian market in the 1990s, he credited Stamford’s bold decision to introduce larger tyre sizes for reshaping demand and driving Falken’s growth in the region. He noted how the partnership has evolved alongside Falken’s brand journey, establishing it as a premium player in the 4×4 segment. He also emphasised SRI’s commitment to advancing tyres for electric and hybrid vehicles, integrating AI in production and Research & Development (R&D), as well as strengthening sustainability efforts. All of which, he said will ensure the partnership with Stamford Tyres continues to thrive and expand across ASEAN and beyond.

Launch of Wildpeak A/T4W & R/T01

Meanwhile, Lee Kok Chiang, Assistant Manager of Sumitomo Rubber Asia (Tyre) Pte Ltd (SRAT), introduced the all-new Falken Wildpeak A/T4W as the next evolution of Falken’s acclaimed all-terrain tyre. He described it as building on the strengths of the A/T3W while delivering major enhancements in durability, comfort, and capability.

Among its key features are an updated tread design, an all-new rubber compound for longer life and smoother on-road performance, improved sidewall protection with three-ply Duraspec technology on selected sizes, and increased tread rigidity for greater towing capability. Off-road traction is further enhanced through staggered shoulder blocks, while updated heat diffuser technology ensures better thermal stability under demanding conditions. The tyre is currently available in the Malaysian market in up to 25 sizes, ranging from 15 to 20 inches. More sizes will be introduced in the future, and will be manufactured in Thailand and Japan. The Wildpeak A/T4W is designed for popular models such as Ford Ranger Raptor, Ford Everest, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Toyota Prado, Lexus LX600, Lexus LX570, Toyota Land Cruiser 300, Mitsibishi Triton, Nissan Navara, Madza BT50, Isuzu D-Max, Land Rover-Defender, GWM Tank 300, and many more.

As for the new Falken Wildpeak R/T01, Lee described it as the ultimate hybrid tyre that combines the best of all-terrain and mud-terrain performance.

“Built for drivers who divide their time between the road and rugged landscapes, the R/T01 delivers exceptional traction, durability, and longevity. Its standout features include an ultimate hybrid terrain tread pattern with a high contact-ratio centre for on-road stability, offset shoulder blocks with stone ejectors to enhance off-road grip and prevent stone lodging, and tectonic tread blocks with step-down support that increase stiffness, extend tread life, and improve handling. An aggressive upper sidewall provides extra protection against sharp rocks while adding claw-like traction on loose or soft surfaces.”

Made in Thailand and available in nine sizes ranging from 16 to 20 inches, Lee continued, the R/T01 carries the POR (Professional Off-Road) marking, underscoring its ability to perform in severe conditions. Tests have also shown shorter braking distances on both dry and wet roads. With fitments for popular models such as the Chevrolet Colorado, Mazda BT-50, Isuzu D-Max, Nissan Navara, Toyota Hilux, and Ford F-Series, the Wildpeak R/T01 sets a new benchmark for versatility and performance across terrains.

Stamford Tyres also took the opportunity to honour its valued partners with a series of awards, including the Appreciation Award, Top Wholesaler Award for 4×4 category, Top Wholesaler Award, Top Dealer Award for UHP category, Top Dealer Award for 4×4 category and Top Dealer Award. The recognition highlighted the vital role of wholesalers and dealers have played in the company’s success and long-standing partnership with Falken.

The celebration ended on a joyful high as the lucky draw brought plenty of excitement for dealer guests, with congratulations going out to all the winners. It was a night filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared sense of pride — a truly memorable celebration of five decades of collaboration and a promise of many more successful years ahead.