by AFIQ HANIF / Pic source Fadillah Yusof’s Facebook

THE government is considering establishing the Malaysian Sustainable Natural Rubber (MSNR) guideline soon.

It will be a sustainable natural rubber initiative which will promote the sustainable production and use of natural rubber in Malaysia.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said MSNR is part of the global effort to promote sustainability in the rubber industry. 

“The initiative aims to promote the sustainable production and use of natural rubber, which is an important raw material for many industries.

“If we look at other countries, whether it is Europe or America, we only see one angle, which is the environment and deforestation. But with the new guidelines, we’re also looking at the economic and well-being of the smallholders,” he told the press after officiating the International Rubber Research & Development Board (IRRDB) 2023 International Rubber Conference today.

The initiative was launched in 2019 by the Malaysian Rubber Board (MRB) in collaboration with other industry stakeholders.

The MSNR initiative focuses on three main areas including sustainable production, processing and market, which aim to promote sustainable rubber farming practices that are environmentally friendly, socially responsible and economically viable.

These include promoting the use of sustainable agriculture practices, such as reducing the use of pesticides and fertilisers, and promoting reforestation.

“The guidelines are not only aimed at the environment as they need to comply with the United Nations Agenda 2030 in the Sustainable Development Goals.

“We are attempting to close the income gap while also eradicating poverty among smallholders. We want long-term development,” Fadillah, who is also the plantation and commodities minister, added.