Preserving A Sago Forest: A Key to Food Security in Maluku
Rutong Communities Effort to Preserve Tradition
In the heart of Ambon City, Maluku, Indonesia, the local government and community in Rutong are working together to preserve a 22-hectare sago forest, a treasure trove of traditional methods and sustainable tourism. This collaborative effort aims to promote food security and economic growth in the region.
Sago: A Symbol of Life and Prosperity
Sago, a vital staple in Maluku, goes beyond nourishment; it embodies life and fuels economic growth. Moreover, it drives community development. The innovative palm forest ecotourism program actively engages visitors in traditional sago processing. They experience hands-on, from tree selection to starch filtration. Consequently, this initiative has significantly boosted local income, thereby preserving the community’s economic well-being.
Tour Packages: Immersive Experiences
Rutong offers two tour packages: an ecotourism package that allows visitors to explore the traditional sago-making process, and a package that includes traditional dance and music performances. Visitors can also sample sago worms, high in protein and fat, adding a unique twist to their culinary experience. Additionally, there’s an educational tour package for students, focusing on the importance of sago in Maluku’s culture and its role in food security.
Spatial Planning: A Step Towards Development
Since 2022, the local government has been actively implementing spatial planning in Rutong. Consequently, they built a road connecting the palm forest and tourist area. Additionally, they developed the mangrove coastal zone, ensuring balanced growth. Notably, this plan enables effective utilization of Rutong’s areas, thereby preserving the natural ecosystem. Furthermore, it strikes a balance between development projects and environmental conservation.
Digitalization: A Leap Towards Progress
Rutong has taken a significant step forward by implementing digitalization through the Rutong.id digital platform, making it the first smart village development in Maluku province. This innovation has earned Rutong recognition as one of the 15 best villages nationally, receiving assistance and financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in 2024.
Awards and Recognition
Rutong’s innovative approach has not gone unnoticed. The village ranked fourth nationally in the prestigious Indonesian Tourism Villages Awards (ADWI) 2023 in the digital tourism village and creative content category.
Food Security: A Top Priority
The preservation of Rutong’s sago forest is crucial for maintaining food security in Ambon City, which heavily relies on outside food supplies. Sago has been a staple food for the Maluku people since ancient times, and its production can help revive local food traditions. By preserving the forest and promoting sustainable tourism, Rutong can serve as a strong bastion of food security for generations to come.
As the world faces food security and sustainability challenges, Rutong’s innovative program shines a light forward. Specifically, the sago forest ecotourism initiative leads the way. Moreover, by merging tradition and innovation, this community-driven project actively promotes sustainability. Consequently, preserving the ecosystem and ensuring food security become interconnected goals. Furthermore, it sets a precedent for a future where environmental stewardship and food security thrive together.
Source: Antara