International Sago Symposium to take place at Tropi in Kota Samarahan on Sept 23-25

KUCHING (Aug 22): The 15th International Sago Symposium will be held at the Sarawak Tropical Peat Research Institute (Tropi) in Kota Samarahan near here, from Sept 23 to 25.

Tropi director Datuk Dr Lulie Melling, also the organising chairperson, said the forthcoming symposium is an important platform for meaningful dialogue and debate on the sustainable development of the sago palm.

Themed ‘Unlocking the Potential of the Sago Palm: Towards Sustainable Food Systems and Environmental Restoration’, she said the symposium is aimed to deepen Tropi’s collective understanding of the immense contribution of the sago palm to food security and the environment.

“It will comprise four thematic sessions: Food Security and Sustainability; Agronomy and Plant Growth; Environmental Management and Restoration; and Product Development and Innovation,” she said.

Adding on, Lulie said the Society of Sago Palm Studies (SSPS) will host a special session focusing on the diverse applications of sago in food, agriculture and biotechnology.

“During this symposium, we would also have the opportunity to view Sarawak’s handicrafts and sago-based products at the exhibition booth.

“We aim to bring together experts, industry leaders, stakeholders and policymakers to share insights, exchange knowledge and foster collaborations that will drive the progress of this versatile plant,” she added.

Lulie said Tropi wants to use this platform to create awareness among young scientists and understand the great potential of sago palms for the future.

This year’s symposium is organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Universiti Teknologi Mara, SSPS of Japan, Nagoya University, Land Custody and Development Authority Holdings Sdn Bhd, CRAUN Research Sdn Bhd, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, and i-CATS University College.

The three-day event is also supported by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Sarawak Convention Bureau.

Moreover, Lulie said participants will experience a comprehensive programme of keynote speeches, plenary sessions, oral presentations and poster sessions.

“We are also pleased to offer numerous networking opportunities, allowing delegates and participants to connect with peers, discuss innovations and explore potential partnerships,” she said.