[Brunei] Crystal Maker Doubles Output

Mahkota Crystal of Brunei aims to double productivity after acquiring a crystal-making technology from sweden. "We've just been given approval by the Ministry of Industry & Primary Resources to bring in a new machine," Studio Manager Hjh Salina Abd Rannie said. The new furnace is more energy-efficient as it runs on electricity instead of gas, & together with new raw materials, is able to melt in just half an hour. A new recycling machine is also in the waiting. The wholly-owned government company is Asia's only lead-free glass manufacturer and is also looking into making crystal jewellery and accessories. In 2006, the company acquired a "fusing technology" which allowed the firm to make spin-off products such as jewellery.