Govt studying disease-resistant rubber tree clones to boost output

 

The government says its R&D activities include studies on seed planting using machines and automated tapping methods.

PETALING JAYA: The plantation and commodities ministry is conducting a study on the development of genomic technology to produce high-quality and disease-resistant rubber tree clones, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.

Its minister, Fadillah Yusof, said this is one of the research and development (R&D) initiatives being carried out as a long-term plan to help increase rubber production for smallholders.

He said one of the main challenges faced by smallholders is that rubber trees often get infected by disease, particularly white root disease, which impacts the productivity and yield of the commodity.

“We are also focusing on R&D involving seed planting using machines and automated tapping methods for a positive impact on the productivity of rubber production.

“Similarly, we aim to develop harvesting and marketing methods to ensure that our products are sustainable and internationally accepted,” he said during the minister’s question time, reported Bernama.

He was responding to Adnan Abu Hassan (BN-Kuala Pilah), who wanted to know the measures and initiatives taken by the ministry to help smallholders facing the problem of low rubber prices.

Fadillah said another measure being taken is through the rubber industry transformation project (Target), which provides technical support and funding to smallholders to encourage their involvement in the rubber production chain.

“Until August 2023, six Target participants, including cooperatives and entrepreneurs, have passed the incubator phase. The next stage is the monitoring process for the opening of the crepe rubber processing centre at suitable locations,” he said.

He also said crepe rubber that can be sold at a higher price is one alternative for rubber smallholders in diversifying their source of income. - FMT