Kuala lumpur: The Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA) is prepared to propose cloud seeding if extreme heat and prolonged drought continue to affect rubber production, particularly in northern Peninsular Malaysia.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, RISDA chairman Manndzri Nasib stated that the ongoing hot weather is impacting leaf growth, latex yield, and smallholders' income. Areas such as Felda Chuping, Felda Rimba Mas, and Felda Mata Ayer in Perlis are among the most severely affected.

Manndzri highlighted the potential necessity of cloud seeding should the situation become critical. He expressed concerns that without intervention, the community could suffer, trees might perish, and replanting would become inevitable. "So, if it gets really serious, RISDA will have no choice but to carry out cloud seeding," he remarked during the GEMPAK Convention and RISDA Kedah's Smallholders Prosperity Programme.

He further elaborated that extreme heat and drought are persistent issues, prompting RISDA to explore methods to preserve soil moisture and tree health. The measures under consideration include the application of fertilisers and the adoption of modern technologies to sustain leaf health, maintain photosynthesis, and stabilize latex production.

Manndzri also reiterated RISDA's dedication to maintaining competitive rubber prices to attract younger generations to the industry. He warned that low prices might deter them from continuing the tapping work tradition.