RUBBER Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA) advised to review its policies to enable an expansion of its role in line with the current economic and technological changes in the country.
The Rural Development Ministry (KPLB) minister Datuk Abd Latiff Ahmad said the review would be conducted by RISDA and the Strategic Planning Division of the ministry by taking into account its functions in developing smallholders and the rural community.
“New proposals are needed and we will listen to the grassroots, which is why everyone involved must cooperate and play their roles to ensure the industry stays competitive.
“If necessary we will amend existing laws to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, and bring it up for debate in Dewan Rakyat,” he told reporters after presenting contributions at a RISDA event in Kampung Orang Asli, Tanjung Tuan in Mersing today.
He called on rural youth to remain in rural areas and equip themselves with the knowledge and skills relevant to Industrial Revolution 4.0, adding that it would enable them to maintain their income and open up new economic opportunities.
“We need to think outside the box and not only focus on rubber; especially in a post COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to diversify crops.” – Dec 13, 2020
