KUCHING: A grassroots seed initiative led by civil society groups is helping Sarawak farmers protect traditional crops and improve food security.
Organised by Uma Bawang Residents’ Association (UBRA), Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM), Forum Kedaulatan Makanan Malaysia (FKMM), Inisiatif Rizab Benih Komuniti (IRBK), and Third World Network (TWN), the Community Seed Sharing and Seed Saving Initiative promotes seed exchange and preservation.
According to Sarawak Civil Society Organisations Sustainable Development Goals (CSO-SDG) Alliance, the latest session was held at a local market in Marudi, where farmers shared seeds, cuttings, and learned techniques in seed saving, cleaning, storage, and preservation.
It said the programme also supports the formation of community-managed seed banks to safeguard rare local varieties and reduce reliance on commercial or imported seeds.
“Seeds are not just crops; they carry the memory, culture, and resilience of our communities.
“By sharing and saving seeds, we are protecting our right to food and our connection to the land,” said co-chair of the Sarawak CSO-SDG Alliance Gabriel Hii in a statement.
The initiative comes amid rising food prices, climate disruption, and growing concerns over Malaysia’s dependence on industrial seed systems and foreign agricultural inputs.
Sarawak CSO-SDG Alliance said it aims to boost seed sovereignty, revive traditional knowledge, and help farming communities determine what they grow based on local needs and conditions.
By preserving climate-resilient and indigenous varieties, the initiative also strengthens rural communities against future economic and environmental shocks.
The next seed exchange takes place at the Kuching Natural Farmer’s Market, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Covered Carpark, from 6 am to 10 am on Jun 21.
The organisers are encouraging members of the public, farmers, home gardeners, and seed savers to bring seeds, cuttings, and plants for exchange.
They will also conduct practical sharing on seed saving techniques and the role of community-led seed banks.
