Research and Development (R&D) undeniably has played a pivotal role in Spurring Malaysia's rapid rise into global prominence not only as a major producer of superior quality natural rubber (NR) but, of late also of rubber products.

Research and Development (R&D) support for the rubber product manufacturing industry in Malaysia is provided by the Malaysian Rubber Board (MRB) through its two research laboratories, namely Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia (RRIM) established in 1938, in the United Kingdom.

The expertise of the MRB network is recognized worldwide. Both research laboratories are currently placing particular emphasis on technical support product development, advisory service and market information to enhance the development of the rubber product manufacturing sector. In addition to R&D support a concerted efforts is undertaken by the Malaysian Government to facilitate development of knowledge based economy.

Established in 1998, the MRB's primary function is to spearhead the overall development and the modernization of the various sectors of the Malaysian rubber.

The Board's Major Activities Are:

• Research and development on matters relating to rubber production processing and manufacturer of rubber products;
• Transferring technologies from research finding to rubber growers, processors and rubber product manufactures;
• Provide technical support and testing services to both the rubber processing and rubber product manufactures as well as provide technical support and testing services;
• Monitoring were demand and supply situation for rubber and rubber goods, promoting markets and advising the government on the implementation of appropriate policies to keep the industry efficient and competitive;
• Regulate the industry to ensure its orderly development and maintaining constant vigilance on the quality of Malaysian rubber and rubber products;
• Training of manpower equipped with the know-how and skills relevant to the rubber industry