Maintenance strategy in Malaysian manufacturing companies: a total productive maintenance (TPM) approach

Purpose The paper aims to investigate the extent of TPM practices in Malaysian manufacturing companies, as TPM practices have been shown to lead to better performance. Design/methodology/approach A survey was conducted in Malaysian manufacturing companies to examine the extent of TPM practices. The correlations among TPM practices were also evaluated accordingly. Findings Correlation analysis was carried out and the results show that there is a positive relationship among TPM practices. In general, TPM practices, for instance autonomous maintenance, planned maintenance and TPM strategy, show positive and significant correlations among this sample of Malaysian manufacturing companies. Research limitation/implications Since the sample was rather small, caution is required when making generalizations. Practical implications The study highlights the need to improve the collaboration between the maintenance function and other functions in organizations. TPM can be established as an aggressive strategy to face stiff competitive environments that require zero breakdowns, stoppages, and failures of equipment. Originality/value The achievements of Malaysian manufacturing companies through TPM practices are evaluated and important TPM practices are identified for enhancing the effectiveness of TPM implementation programs in the Malaysian context.