The size of rubber latex cups shows the growth of the rubber industry since the first rubber trees were planted in 1877 in Malaya.
Credit goes to the research and development in the private sector plantations and RRI (Rubber Research Institute) for developing new clones with increased yields. With the increase in latex yields the size of the cups increased.
The 2 photos show the improved yields of rubber latex over the years. Before 1950 most latex cups were about 50 fluid ounces.
After 1950 most latex cups were 200 fluid ounces with the improved yields.
Early latex cups were glazed and could have been imported from England. See Photo 1. Harrison and Crossfield. They had the Agency's or estate's name embossed on them.
In the 1960s glass latex cups with the name SOCFIN embossed were used. Today most latex cups are plastic. See Photo 2 fourth from left.
Another interesting cup is the third from left . It is a glass cup with a pointed base and the name of the estate (Hidden Stream Estate Trong) embossed on it.
Occasionally, milo tins (3rd photo) were used to collect latex from some slaughter tapping trees due for replanting because the yields were high.
Photo 2
Photo 3
