By Amanda L
KUCHING, Nov 19: Sarawak is accelerating efforts to transform its rich biodiversity and traditional community knowledge into market-ready products, deepening partnerships that connect local insights with scientific research.
Deputy Sarawak Secretary for Economic Planning and Development Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel highlighted that combining community expertise in natural materials with scientific validation gives Sarawak a competitive edge in developing research-backed natural products for global markets.
He noted that many rural communities hold knowledge of natural compounds that remain undocumented and are often confined to their local areas, presenting untapped opportunities for discovery and commercialisation.
“Communities have safeguarded knowledge and natural materials for generations. Through Sarawak Biodiversity Centre’s (SBC) research, these resources can be validated and developed into products with commercial potential,” he said during a dialogue session held in conjunction with the launch of Trove Borneo in partnership with Kitkoji Pte Ltd Singapore at a hotel here today.
Abdullah Zaidel, who is also chairman of SBC, emphasised that collaborative approaches remain central to the Sarawak’s strategy, ensuring that rural participants are recognised and benefit as innovations move through the research and commercial pipelines.
“These partnerships reflect Sarawak’s commitment to inclusive development, where community knowledge drives scientific progress and strengthens the State’s bioeconomy, in line with rising global demand for research-backed natural products.
“Continued cooperation between SBC and rural communities will not only enhance livelihoods but also advance Sarawak’s long-term goals in innovation, research and economic resilience,” he said. — DayakDaily
