The 1980’s saw the dynamic growth of the printing industry when many new printing companies were set up. Realising it was vital that these companies must stay united, the Malaysia Printers Association (MPA) was established on 3rd September 1986. The move was quickly welcomed by many industry players from all related sectors.  One of the earliest functions of MPA then was to immediately help the printing companies resolve its licensing problems. It worked hand in hand with the Government to ease the licensing application, and had been successful.

With more printing companies growing beyond Kuala Lumpur, MPA felt it was a necessity to expand its operations and thus, MPA branches were formed in Johor (1988) and Penang (1993). Apart from it, various printing press associations joined MPA as an affiliate member. These include Perak Printing Press Association, Selangor Federal Territory Chinese Printing Press Association (1996) and Kuching Printing Press Association (2004).

MPA has since grown from strength to strength. Today, it has around 500 members, and the number continues to grow. Some of MPA’s achievements were its participation in the Asean Printing and Publishing Federation(APPF) in November, 1991. The members of APPF that time were Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. The main objective of APPF was to promote greater interaction among its members within the Asean region.

Besides, MPA representing Malaysia to join the Forum Of Graphic Arts Technology (FAGAT) in September 1996. Fagat memberships include those from Japan (founder of Fagat), Korea, Philipines, Thailand, Singapore, China, Sri Lanka and Australia. Fagat members take turn to organise forums   in their respective countries. They have held eleven Fagat Forums since its formation. The latest 11th Fagat was held in Japan in year 2009 while Malaysia organised the 7th Fagat in year 2004.

To date, MPA has achieved many achievements for its members. It has become the voice that represents the printing industry in the country.