SAGO, THE 'TREE OF LIFE' THAT DRIVES SUSTAINABLE PEATLAND AGRICULTURE – ROLAND SAGAH

KUCHING, Sept 23 (Bernama) --  Sago, known as the ‘tree of life’, thrives specifically in peatland areas, which are characterised by their wetland ecosystems, Sarawak Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn said today.

He said these characteristics not only underscored the importance of managing peatlands sustainably but also highlighted the shared cultivation practices with other crops like oil palm.

“Sago significance extends beyond its environmental impact to serve as a vital food source for many communities.

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“Any research aimed at increasing sago harvests would be beneficial both to industries and to humanity, contributing to food sustainability,” he said after the 15th International Sago Symposium Ice Breaking Event here tonight.

Speaking at the event, Sagah said the dinner was the perfect setting for researchers, policy makers and practitioners to make connections that will drive discussions and discoveries to unlock the full potential of the sago palm.

Meanwhile, the organising chairman of the symposium, Datuk Dr Lulie Melling said a total of 250 local and foreign participants joined the symposium, which started today until Wednesday.

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With the theme ‘Unlocking the Potential of Sago Palm: Towards Sustainable Food Systems and Environmental Restoration’, the symposium gathers scientists, industrial stakeholders and government officials to work on different aspects of sago development to ensure a sustainable industrial crop production system.

It also seeks to elevate the status of sago globally as a viable, sustainable, and nutritious food source for food security and highlight its pivotal role in the restoration and rehabilitation of tropical peatlands.

-- BERNAMA