Kangar: The Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA) has unveiled a new initiative aimed at promoting local entrepreneurs by launching RisSMart Grocer, a modern supermarket that consolidates their products into one accessible marketplace.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted that RisSMart Grocer is not just a retail hub but also a platform to enhance rural products through labelling, halal certification, and innovative branding strategies. He emphasized that this initiative represents RISDA’s ongoing efforts to increase the competitiveness and profitability of smallholder entrepreneur products by engaging actively in the retail and agro-food sectors.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 Northern Zone RISDA MADANI Carnival (KARRISMA), Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, noted that KARRISMA will feature the RisSMart outlet as a central marketplace for smallholder entrepreneur products. He announced the expansion of this concept through RisSMart24, which now includes 11 convenience store branches and three RisSMart Butchery branches offering quality halal meat products around the Klang Valley.
Ahmad Zahid also introduced RISDA’s innovative initiative to produce biofuel oil from rubber scrap, aiming to boost the country’s rubber production and explore alternative energy sources. Tests by the Kelantan State Chemistry Department confirmed the safety and effectiveness of this biofuel without additives, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions and reduced carbon emissions.
RISDA chairman Manndzri Nasib revealed that the agency has invested RM101.16 million in nationwide smallholder community development programs. He reaffirmed RISDA’s commitment to supporting over 500,000 smallholders, who are vital to the rubber commodity sector.
The KARRISMA North Zone event is anticipated to draw over 10,000 visitors and achieve a sales target of RM200,000, serving as a crucial platform to strengthen the rural entrepreneurial ecosystem. The event also witnessed a memorandum of cooperation between RISDA Security and Services, Aerodyne Group, and Aerodata Consulting to explore high-impact digital solutions through drone technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics in security services, facility management, and monitoring.
RISDA has allocated RM91.5 million for the RISDA Northern Zone Development Programme 2025, which includes the Rubber Replanting Programme, Mature Rubber Scheme Programme, Entrepreneur Development Programme, and Agrofood Programme.