BANGI: Malaysia is targeting to reclaim its position as the world’s leading rubber producer within the next decade, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said that the goal was achievable, provided that replanting efforts and innovation within the rubber industry are carried out comprehensively and systematically.
"I have discussed this with the director and chairman of the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda), and I believe we can achieve this within 10 years. Malaysia has 800,000 hectares of rubber plantations, with 400,000 hectares in need of replanting,” said Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister.
"The replanting process must utilise high-quality saplings and automated methods for tapping and collection,” he said to the media, after attending the opening ceremony of the 2025 Risda Field Officers Convention, here, on Thursday (Jan 23).
Ahmad Zahid also highlighted that this initiative includes promoting the use of rubber wood in the furniture industry, not as raw material, but as treated rubber wood, thus increasing its market value.
"This means that the proceeds from rubber wood will become significantly more valuable. We anticipate that this will provide a sufficient resource for Risda to operate independently, without relying on the government budget. This is our commitment, insya-Allah,” he said.
He also reflected on Malaysia’s former position as the global leader in the rubber industry, noting that the country is now ranked 10th.
"Currently, Malaysia’s share of the world’s rubber supply stands at just 50 per cent. Meanwhile, our neighbouring country produces a third of global rubber production," he added.
"However, I am confident that, with the enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment of everyone involved, we will not only overcome the challenges ahead, but also elevate this industry to greater heights. Our goal is to reclaim the top position in the global rubber industry,” he said.
He emphasised the critical role of innovation, technology, and sustainable practices, in ensuring the continued competitiveness and productivity of Malaysia’s rubber sector.
He emphasised that this initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to foster rural development and reinforce the agricultural sector as a key pillar of the nation’s economy.
"We must be bold enough to move away from outdated practices. The rubber sector needs to become more appealing to the younger generation through the integration of modern technologies such as AI, automation, and agricultural innovation,” he said.
"Imagine rubber plantations utilising IoT, drones to boost productivity, and e-commerce platforms linking smallholders directly to global markets. This isn’t just a transformation - it’s a revolution in the rubber industry that we all look forward to witnessing,” he added.
For over a century, Malaysia’s rubber industry has been a cornerstone of the country’s economic growth.
In 2023, the export value of Malaysia’s rubber industry, including rubberwood, was projected to reach RM37.2 billion, highlighting its significant role in the national economy.
During the tabling of the Budget 2025, the government allocated various funds to support the rubber industry, including RM20mil to redevelop idle privately-owned rubber plantations and RM60mil in matching grants under Risda for the smallholders’ latex production programme.- Bernama
