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KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, commended the significant role of the Sabah Rubber Industry Board (LIGS) in empowering smallholders and contributing to rural economic development over its 75-year history.

Speaking at the LIGS’ diamond jubilee celebration, Jeffrey highlighted that LIGS had not only served as a regulatory body for the rubber industry but also as a key driver in enhancing the competitiveness of Sabah’s rubber sector.

“Since its establishment in 1950, LIGS has been at the forefront of developing Sabah’s rubber industry through various initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and strengthening the rural economy, particularly for smallholder farmers,” he said.

He acknowledged the global price fluctuations that often challenge the rubber industry, commending LIGS for proactively introducing supplementary economic programmes to help smallholders diversify their income sources.

“One of the main strategies introduced is the Additional Economic Activities Program, including MD2 pineapple cultivation, which has now become an alternative source of income for smallholders,” Jeffrey said.

He also highlighted the success of the People’s Income Initiative (IPR) – Agri-Entrepreneur Initiative in Kampung Gana, Kota Marudu, which was carried out under the mandate of the Ministry of Economy.

“This project has not only improved the living standards of rural communities but also opened opportunities for agri-entrepreneurs to expand their ventures in modern agriculture,” he added.

Jeffrey assured that the State government remains committed to supporting the development of Sabah’s rubber industry to ensure its relevance and competitiveness at both national and international levels.

“With close cooperation between the State, Federal, LIGS and smallholders, Sabah’s rubber industry will continue to grow and contribute to the prosperity of the State,” he said.