Tagal Kampung Sosogoh Selected As Pilot Programme Under PINTAR Initiative

NABAWAN, Aug 17 (Bernama) -- The Tagal Community of Kampung Sosogoh has been selected as the pilot programme for the National Innovation for Food Security (PINTAR) initiative, receiving a RM30,000 allocation from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS).

Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said that through PINTAR, the Tagal Community of Kampung Sosogoh will benefit from assistance and advisory services, ensuring that the Tagal scheme effectively contributes to food security while also preserving the environment.

“The allocation will be utilised to purchase five solar power generators, 20 bags of fish feed, 100 plastic chairs and four bins, and materials for constructing public toilets,” he said in a statement after officiating the PINTAR Tagal Community of Kampung Sosogoh in Pagalungan today.

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He added that the PINTAR emphasises the implementation and cultivation of innovation across all aspects of the agro-food value chain, aimed at strengthening the domestic food system and ensuring the production of productive and sustainable food resources.

“The Tagal system, a community-driven conservation initiative for fishery resources, not only seeks to preserve and manage river ecosystems but also serves as a vital food source for local residents and is expected to become an eco-tourism attraction.

“Employment opportunities can also be created for the local community to run businesses at stalls within the Tagal area,” he said while adding that Tagal is a traditional river fish conservation system that has been in existence for generations in Sabah.

He added that Tagal Kampung Sosogoh has a high potential to attract tourists, as it is the only Tagal system in Pensiangan that has successfully conserved fish.

He added the area's strategic location next to a road under construction, its rich flora and fauna, and its suitability for camping and hiking activities, all of which are expected to draw more visitors to the area.

At the same event, 2,850 lampam (tinfoil barb) fry worth RM10,000 were released, donated by the Department of Fisheries, to help conserve fish species, increase their population and preserve biodiversity.

The Sabah Department of Fisheries also channelled donations to 12 Tagal areas, including solar power generators, ice boxes, nets, canvas mats and signboards.

-- BERNAMA