KOTA BELUD: The Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda) launched a new logo (pic) to mark more than half a century since its establishment.
Risda chairman Manndzri Nasib said the new logo symbolises the agency’s aspirations, fighting spirit and strong commitment to uplifting the smallholder community nationwide.
He said the redesign is not just a visual change but carries significant meaning as a symbol of the strength of grassroots smallholders, who contribute nearly 90 percent of the country’s rubber output.
“It reflects Risda’s determination to keep moving forward in line with current and future challenges, ensuring that smallholders remain the backbone of the national rubber industry,” he said at the Risda Madani (PRISMA) Sabah 2025 programme in Kota Belud on Saturday.
The programme was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
According to Manndzri, the colour change from green to gold signifies Risda’s achievements over more than five decades. Gold, he said, represents excellence, authenticity and outstanding accomplishments, while also projecting a modern, professional, innovative and competitive image.
The logo has also been refined with changes to the rubber bowl stripes, from 11 to 14, symbolising Risda’s nationwide reach and inclusivity in leading smallholder development across Malaysia.
“The combination of gold and the new stripes brings a fresh aspiration for Risda to position itself as a high-performing agency driving transformation in the rubber commodity sector,” he said.
Manndzri added that in line with the Malaysia Madani vision and the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s Aspirasi Desa Madani, the new logo underlines Risda’s commitment to empowering smallholders, not only as aid recipients but also as resilient and globally competitive rural economic players.
“This launch marks a turning point for Risda’s transformation journey, strengthening confidence that the agency will remain a key driver in developing the socioeconomy of smallholders and ensuring sustainable growth in the national rubber industry,” he said.
Meanwhile, Risda has been urged to introduce new technology in rubber tapping to help smallholders cope with labour shortages and the challenges of the monsoon season.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said modern technology would allow smallholders to save energy while continuing latex production even during wet weather.
“With new technology, smallholders will not only save energy but can also continue latex extraction despite the rainy season,” he told reporters after officiating the Risda Madani (PRISMA) Sabah 2025 programme.
Zahid, who is also Minister of Rural and Regional Development, noted that Malaysia remains behind in global latex production, forcing the country to import the material at a cost of up to RM6 billion.
He said Risda has agreed to set up at least one new rubber depot in every district to boost local latex output.
“These depots must be equipped with advanced technology and skilled workers to enhance latex production. This will reduce import dependency and position Malaysia as a leading latex producer in the future,” he said.
He also stressed the need for Risda to find the best solutions to ensure natural rubber remains a key resource in local industries.
“This is crucial as synthetic rubber is increasingly replacing natural rubber. I hope Risda will collaborate with other stakeholders, including scientists, to address this issue,” he added.
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