Saratok pioneers innovative peatland conservation in Malaysia

SARATOK: Saratok has pioneered innovative peat conservation methods in Malaysia.

According to Kalaka assemblyman Mohamad Duri, peatland is an important resource for agriculture and development, but is being degraded due to human activities and climate change.

In this regard, he said the introduction of degraded peat soil conservation methods through paludicultural practices will offer an innovative approach to maintain the stability of the soil ecosystem as well as ensure the sustainability of agriculture and the socioeconomic development of the local community.

“The paludiculture method, the first research trial in Malaysia is an approach based on the use of peatland, which is rewetted for agriculture without causing soil degradation.

“This not only helps reduce carbon emissions, but also introduces more environmentally friendly and sustainable farming methods.

“While the Beaver Dam method, used in this project, is the first to be applied in Malaysia, especially in Saratok.

“This is an achievement that we should be proud of, in which Saratok pioneered an innovative peatland conservation method,” he said.

He said this during the Inauguration Ceremony of the Demonstration Programme Introduction and Acceptance Study of Degraded Agricultural Peatland Conservation Methods through Paludiculture Practices at MARDI Saratok Station.

He explained that this method uses 100 per cent organic matter to help maintain the water level in peatland areas, thus reducing the negative impact on the environment.

He added that through conservation efforts, farmers can reduce the risk of fire, maintain water levels, and preserve natural ecosystems for future generations.

Mohamad is optimistic that the Sarawak government in particular and the federal government are always committed to supporting projects that aim to preserve natural resources, especially peat land.

“I hope this project will be a pioneer and an example for other areas in Malaysia to adopt a similar approach.

“With the success of this workshop, I also hope that more researchers, farmers, and other stakeholders will see the great potential offered by the paludicultural method in addressing the issue of peatland conservation.

“Hopefully through this joint effort we can achieve the goal of creating a more sustainable agricultural sector in line with environmental conservation efforts,” he said.

He expressed his gratitude to MARDI Saratok Station and The Habitat Foundation as the main sponsors of this project.

Director of MARDI Soil, Water and Fertilizer Science Research Centre, Dr Rosliza Jajuli, was also present.