BENTONG: Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani has underscored the urgent need to revive Malaysia's natural rubber industry.
The visit comes at a critical juncture, as Malaysia, once the world's leading exporter of natural rubber, now finds itself among the largest importers of the commodity.
Johari, during a visit to LRG Rubber Sdn Bhd in Bentong, Pahang, said he has initiated talks with the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda) director-general and the Malaysian Rubber Board to encourage smallholders' participation in revitalising the sector.
The discussions, he said, focused on rediscovering abandoned rubber plantations, increasing production, enhancing the downstream industry, and positioning Malaysia as a leading exporter once again.
"Malaysia still imports one million tonnes of natural rubber worth RM6 billion annually for downstream industries. Presently, the country only produces around 380,000 metric tonnes of rubber.
"There are still 420,000 hectares of abandoned rubber plantations.
"If these can be worked on, it will reduce our dependency on imports," said the minister.
LRG Rubber, meanwhile, emphasised its dedication to supporting local production.
In a statement, the company said it sources its natural rubber mainly from smallholders, equivalent to 30 per cent to 40 per cent of Malaysia's natural rubber production, ensuring that the rubber is integrated into its manufacturing processes.
"As long as there is natural rubber production in the country, we will acquire," said the company, adding that Johari's visit to LRG Rubber has opened new discussions on how to reclaim the untapped plantations and revitalise Malaysia's natural rubber industry.
LRG Rubber said that beyond economic contributions, it has demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility through its charitable foundation.
These efforts, it said, align with the broader strategy to consolidate the national rubber industry, not only for higher production but also for sustainable practices.
"The push for sustainability will be guided by the Malaysia Sustainable Natural Rubber (MSNR) guidelines, ensuring that Malaysian rubber production adheres to global standards," it said.