Kota kinabalu: The Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA) is prioritizing the enhancement of its information delivery system to effectively reach its target groups, according to RISDA Chairman Manndzri Nasib. This initiative is designed to ensure that all development-related information is communicated effectively and efficiently, enabling smallholders to better understand the opportunities available to them.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Manndzri emphasized the importance of outreach programs across various areas, where RISDA officers will disseminate good agricultural practices, raise awareness about optimal farm maintenance, and ensure that every program aligns with established key performance indicators. This initiative is pivotal for improving rubber production and subsequently increasing the income of smallholders, as he stated during the opening ceremony of the Sabah Smallholders Engagement Programme 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
The event was officially opened by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also serves as Rural and Regional Development Minister. Other notable attendees included Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, Rural and Regional Development Ministry Deputy Secretary-General (Development) Meor Ismail Meor Akim, and RISDA Director-General Zainal Azni Zulkifli.
Manndzri expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Ahmad Zahid for the support and trust placed in RISDA. He highlighted that RISDA is strategically planning to position itself as the country’s primary rubber buyer, with Sabah making significant strides in this direction. This initiative is part of efforts inspired by Ahmad Zahid to advance the Aspirasi Desa MADANI agenda.
Additionally, Manndzri noted that RISDA is optimistic about the continuous improvement of rubber planting areas, farm productivity, and smallholder income in Sabah. This improvement is expected to result from efficient information dissemination, well-structured assistance, and the adoption of good agronomic practices. Since 2010, RISDA has been committed to playing a vital role in ensuring the sustainable development of the smallholder rubber sector in Sabah.
Manndzri highlighted RISDA’s dedicated efforts to enhance rural development and the rubber industry ecosystem, which includes farm development, productivity enhancement, and the improvement of socio-economic wellbeing for communities. These efforts not only drive Sabah’s rubber industry but also stimulate socio-economic growth, create new opportunities for smallholders, and enhance the competitiveness of rural communities.
The Smallholders Engagement Programme, according to Manndzri, was introduced to provide targeted information while serving as a comprehensive platform for delivering guidance, support programs, and information accurately and promptly to the intended groups. Manndzri stressed the complementary roles of RISDA and smallholders, particularly in Sabah, in the agricultural, economic entrepreneurship, and social aspects of the state’s rubber development ecosystem.
He underscored the necessity of preserving this relationship through programs and activities aligned with RISDA’s objectives, asserting that the success of each initiative depends on the cooperation and support of all parties involved. In Sabah, the strong relationship between RISDA and the smallholder community remains excellent and harmonious, which serves as a significant strength for the organization.