PENAMPANG: A new agroecology training centre, Kivatu Nature Farm, has been launched to strengthen food security and promote sustainable farming practices among communities in Sabah.
The farm is designed as a model for the efficient use of limited land, while supporting environmentally sustainable and economically viable agriculture for both rural and urban communities.
It is also expected to play a key role in equipping communities with practical skills to develop self-sustaining food systems and reduce dependence on external food supplies.
The launch was a key highlight of the 27th Gresunali (Green Economy Sustainable Natural Livelihood) Bazaar, organised by Partners of Community Organisations in Sabah (Pacos Trust), which brought together about 180 participants from across the State last Saturday.
Participants included farmers, community-based enterprises, women’s groups, and persons with disabilities involved in socio-economic and livelihood initiatives.
In her keynote address, Pacos Trust Executive Director Anne Lasimbang said the platform has enabled grassroots communities to exchange knowledge, strengthen local economies, and build resilience through sustainable practices for nearly three decades.
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Meanwhile, State Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries Jamawi Ja’afar, represented by his political secretary, Herbert Roger, said the State government supports initiatives such as home gardening, or “kebun dapur”, as a practical approach to enhancing household food security.
He also expressed support for community-driven efforts to promote environmentally friendly agriculture and strengthen Indigenous community enterprises in Sabah.
During the event, participants raised concerns over the potential impact of UPOV 1991 Convention on traditional seed systems, urging the government to review its adoption to safeguard farmers’ rights and local agricultural practices.
The Gresunali initiative is supported by the European Union, reflecting continued international backing for community-led sustainability efforts in Sabah.
