RISDA allocates RM44.42 million to enhance Sabah smallholder welfare

BEAUFORT: The Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority has allocated RM44.42 million to over 30,000 smallholders in Sabah this year.
Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang stated this reflects RISDA’s ongoing commitment to promoting rubber smallholder welfare.
She revealed that RM6.76 million was specifically channelled to 4,793 rubber smallholders under RISDA’s supervision in Beaufort.
Rubiah emphasised this allocation represents a significant responsibility to ensure smallholders continue benefiting from rubber sector development.
“RISDA’s commitment to empowering smallholders in Sabah is further demonstrated through the introduction of innovative agricultural and green technology practices, including the use of high-quality planting materials, concentrated latex techniques, and modern plantation management systems.”
“This approach not only enhances rubber yield and quality but also reduces dependence on intermediaries, helping to cultivate a progressive, self-reliant smallholder community with a global market outlook,” she said during her speech at the state-level Prosperous Smallholders Programme.
She expressed confidence that with robust ministry support, RISDA will continue rolling out initiatives to enhance plantation productivity and expand economic opportunities.
Rubiah added that various support initiatives including the Additional Economic Activities Programme have been introduced to encourage entrepreneurship.
She explained that programme participants can receive grants of up to RM20,000 covering equipment and business inputs across services, food, manufacturing, and agriculture sectors.
The event was also attended by RISDA Semaian & Landskap Sdn Bhd chairperson and Beaufort MP Datuk Siti Aminah Aching and RISDA deputy director-general Haniza Ab Shukor. – Bernama