RISDA to expand in Myanmar and Laos

ALOR GAJAH – Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda) is expanding its investment by developing rubber plantations in Myanmar and Laos. Risda Chairman Tan Sri Rahim Tamby Chik said the two countries were chosen as they have ample landbank with the potential to be developed into rubber plantation or undertake rubber replanting programmes.

“The investment involve the supply of technology and sharing experience as well as disclosure of Risda’s rubber industry planting and replanting activities which has reached 40 years in the country,” he said.

The two-way cooperation will increase investment opportunities and earnings and at the same time will foster solidarity and economic collaboration amongst ASEAN countries by assisting those countries to alleviate poverty.

Risda’s subsidiaries, Estet Pekebun Kecil Sdn Bhd (Espek) and Risda Plantation Sdn Bhd (RPSB) will be visiting the two countries from Oct 15, 2012 to explore investment opportunities there.

“The short visits are aimed at gathering information on the initiatives, the country’s rule of law, as well as our rights as an investor in order that the investment to be made are beneficial to both countries,” he said.