KOTA SAMARAHAN: The recent visit by a distinguished delegation from the Malaysian Social Science Association (PSSM) to the Sarawak Orchid Society’s (SARORSO) Sabaki Farm community-based orchid project was seen as recognition of the community’s efforts in conserving orchids while empowering local residents.
SARORSO Samarahan Community leader Saptuyah Baki said the visit was in line with PSSM’s role within the APPGM-SDG framework and demonstrated how the community-based orchid project at Sabaki Farm helps to localise these goals.
“We welcomed the PSSM delegation led by its president, Professor Dr Sity Daud, on Aug 14 to witness firsthand a community-based initiative that contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“This is particularly related to quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), and decent work (SDG 8),” she said when contacted on Monday (Aug 18).
According to her, the Sabaki Farm Project under SARORSO’s guidance shows that local orchids can serve as a bridge between conservation, education, and sustainable livelihoods, creating opportunities while preserving biodiversity.
“Designed as a five-year pilot project from 2023 to 2028, it aspires to grow into a scalable model for community-based conservation entrepreneurship across Sarawak.”
Earlier, she said that the delegation was welcomed by SARORSO chairperson Tengku Dr Auvaroza Tengku Abraham, who briefed them on the objectives and achievements of the orchid project, developed together with the local community under the APPGM-SDG Sarawak funding.
“The visit included a presentation, a guided tour of the farm, and open exchanges of ideas.
“It also involved former JIVOMese students, now pursuing their studies at universities, who returned as junior SARORSO members to support the visit and share their journey from school-level orchid conservation to university-level involvement.”
She added that the visit was a moment of pride and encouragement for the community.
“The presence of high-profile figures, fresh from attending a major national conference, coming all the way to Kota Samarahan is a huge recognition of the community’s efforts.
“For the delegates, meanwhile, the Sabaki Farm Project offered valuable insights into how grassroots conservation can inspire sustainable solutions, especially with women and youth playing active roles.
“They also learned how the local community links orchid cultivation with conservation awareness and community empowerment.”
Saptuyah also expressed her deep appreciation to the visiting delegates for their perspectives, encouragement, and presence.
“Their presence has inspired the community to further strengthen this initiative, ensuring it grows into a model of how local action can contribute to global goals.”
For the record, the visit took place right after the successful 14th International Conference on Malaysian Studies (MSC14), hosted by Unimas under the theme “Sustainable Development, Vulnerability and Resilience: Malaysia and Asean”.
