Our History

From a family business to a global force in protection -
built on purpose, powered by progress.

1988

Humble
Beginnings

Karex began in 1988 with a simple belief: that access to protection should be a right, not a privilege. From a small, family-run factory in Johor, Malaysia, we set out to make products that matter - to protect lives, empower choice, and support public health.

The early years were full of grit. We faced stiff competition from global multinationals, the complexity of regulatory approvals, and the tightening grip of the Asian Financial Crisis. But these challenges didn’t break us - they shaped us. Every step forward became a lesson in resilience, resourcefulness, and reinvention.

1990

Begins manufacturing for the commercial market, marking our first step from local ambition to global reach.

1994

Successfully enters the public sector by bidding for government tenders - opening new doors to serve national healthcare systems.

2005

Diversifies into personal lubricants to complement our condom business, expanding our portfolio in intimate wellness and care.

2006

Expands operations into Thailand with a new manufacturing facility in Hat Yai - strengthening regional supply and scale.

Culture of Purpose

From day one, we knew we had to think differently. We refused to follow the industry’s playbook. Instead, we built our own machines, redesigned production lines, and reimagined what protection could look and feel like - making condoms more comfortable, inclusive, and accessible for people everywhere.

Over time, our ambition grew - not just in output, but in impact. As demand rose, so did our commitment to safety, sustainability, and equity. From diversifying our product portfolio to embedding ethical practices across our supply chain, Karex became more than a manufacturer. We became a global partner in health and wellbeing.

2011

World’s Largest Condom Maker

Karex, a company specializing in the production of condoms, has achieved the status of being the largest manufacturer of condoms globally. This accomplishment suggests that Karex has surpassed other companies in terms of production volume, market share, or both.

2011

World’s Largest Condom Maker

Karex, a company specializing in the production of condoms, has achieved the status of being the largest manufacturer of condoms globally. This accomplishment suggests that Karex has surpassed other companies in terms of production volume, market share, or both.

2013

Listed on Bursa

Lists on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. A new chapter begins - one that balances growth with purpose, performance with responsibility.

2014

Completes the acquisition of Global Protection Corp., igniting a new era of branded product innovation and consumer-focused storytelling.

2016

Crosses 5 billion units in annual production capacity, solidifying our role as a trusted manufacturing partner and expanding our ability to deliver on the promise of protection, wherever it is needed.

2019

Adds UK-based Pasante Healthcare and US brand Trustex to our brand family - expanding our footprint across key global markets.

2023

Celebrating 10 years

Over the past decade, Karex has solidified its position as a leader in the condom industry, driving innovation, promoting sexual health awareness, and empowering individuals worldwide to make informed choices. In 2023, Karex marks a decade of transformative growth as it celebrates its 10th anniversary since listing on the prestigious Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad.

2024

The Edge Malaysia ESG Awards

Won Gold at The Edge Malaysia ESG Awards - Recognised as Best Performer in the Consumer Products & Services sector - a milestone in our ongoing ESG journey.

Driven by Values, Designed for Tomorrow

At the heart of our journey is a culture built on care, courage, and conviction. We have always believed that protecting lives goes beyond products - it is about protecting dignity, health, and futures.

Today, we are entering a new chapter: powering our factories with renewable energy, hiring locally to support communities, and embedding ESG into every decision we make. Our story is far from over - but it’s grounded in the same mission we started with: to make protection accessible, sustainable, and human.

We honour our roots. We grow with purpose. And we keep moving forward - together.