With an impressive legacy spanning over 33 years, RKSA has solidified its position as a distinguished leader in the roller chain industry. It distributes exceptional products across Malaysia and beyond. In Malaysia, RKSA commands an impressive 100% share of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) market, servicing renowned brands such as Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Modenas. Its strategic location at Prai Industrial Estate, just 13 kilometres from the Penang International Seaport, facilitates seamless logistics and enhances domestic and international distribution.

RKSA’s exceptional products grace markets in Japan, the United States, the Middle East, various ASEAN nations, India, Pakistan, Europe, and beyond, demonstrating the company’s commitment to global reach. The company took root in 1984 within the Seberang Perai Industrial Estate, marking the beginning of its remarkable journey. A significant milestone occurred in 1992 with the establishment of a ‘Technical Advice Agreement’ with RK Excel Co. Ltd in Japan, paving the way for future collaborations.

A pivotal moment arrived in August 2010 when KRSA merged with RK Japan, further enhancing its chain and sprocket manufacturing expertise. The expansion continued in September 2010 with the establishment of two new sales branches, RK-Thai and RK-Philippines, aimed at penetrating the markets of Thailand and the Philippines. Through these strategic developments, RKSA has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation and growth within the roller chain industry.

Dato’ Lee Thian Chai stands as RK South Asia’s visionary founder, embodying a remarkable blend of educational prowess and entrepreneurial spirit. His academic journey commenced at the National University of Taiwan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, culminating in a Master of Science from the esteemed University of Texas at Austin in 1986.

Dato’ Lee embarked on an ambitious venture by establishing RK South Asia Sdn Bhd in 1988. Over 33 years, his relentless dedication and acumen transformed RKSA into a formidable multinational conglomerate with subsidiaries in diverse nations, including Japan, the United States, France, Italy, the Netherlands, China, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Brazil, and Australia. As reported by MIDA Tokyo, Dato’ Lee achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Malaysian leader in the Small and Medium Industry (SMI) to acquire three Japanese manufacturing companies successfully.

This strategic execution facilitated the transfer of advanced technology and esteemed brands back to Penang, enabling the local production of motorcycle components for export to global markets. Under his stewardship, the group now employs over 2,000 individuals across 13 countries, contributing significantly to the workforce and the economic landscape.

Dato’ Lee’s commitment to social responsibility shines through in his philanthropic endeavours, as he has generously supported numerous charitable organisations and sponsored various sporting events, reflecting his dedication to giving back to the community.

RKSA has made significant acquisitions over the years. In 2018, the company purchased Excel Rim Japan Co Ltd, located in Shiga, which holds the title of the world’s leading aluminium rim brand for off-road motorcycles. Continuing its expansion, RKSA acquired Kaga Kogyo Co. Ltd. in 2023, based in Niigata, with an additional factory in Xiamen, China. Kaga Kogyo is well-known in Japan for manufacturing industrial chains.