SIK, October 24th - The Rubber Industry Smallholder Development Authority (RISDA) has allocated RM7.9 million for smallholder rubber development initiatives in Sik district, Kedah, this year.

This development focuses on six key areas: the rubber replanting assistance program, entrepreneur development, agro-food initiatives, mature rubber schemes, extension services, and support during the monsoon season.

Abdul Aziz Awang, Kedah State RISDA Director, said that in 2024, the Sik District RISDA Office will oversee 460 hectares dedicated to rubber replanting and the establishment of new rubber plantations, with assistance valued at RM13,710 per hectare.

He emphasized that as a vital crop for the national economy, RISDA encourages smallholders to engage in rubber replanting.

The goals of replanting include replacing old and unproductive rubber trees, introducing better breeds, and increasing income.

Abdul Aziz noted that replanting and establishing new plantations serve as an "entry point" for smallholders to access additional support from RISDA, including technical advice, agricultural inputs, farm infrastructure improvements, economic development through entrepreneurship and agro-food initiatives, and various other benefits.

Currently, 13,934 smallholders in Sik district rely on this commodity, making it a key focus for RISDA, an agency under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), aimed at improving the living standards of smallholders in line with the Desa Madani initiative.

Abdul Aziz made these comments during the launch of the Rubber Commodity Sustainability Movement Program (GKKG) at the Sik District RISDA office in Kampung Belantek, Sik, Kedah.

Also in attendance were Sik District Officer Faisal Rizal Mohammad and Sik District RISDA Officer Mohd Kamil Abdul Rahman.