JAYAPURA — The Papua Provincial Government continues to encourage the development of sago as a leading local food commodity.

Acting Head of the Papua Provincial Agriculture Office, Lunanka V.M.L. Daimboa, said the government is not only promoting the use of sago products, but also strengthening cultivation efforts to ensure the sustainability of the plant.

"We want farmers not only to harvest sago, but also to learn how to cultivate it so that its population remains preserved," she said.

In addition, the Papua Provincial Agriculture Office will strengthen collaboration with district and municipal governments, particularly in areas with strong sago potential such as Mamberamo Raya, Waropen, Sarmi, as well as Jayapura Regency and Jayapura City.

She emphasized that sago development will proceed alongside other agricultural programs, including the community rice-field expansion program and oil palm replanting, without neglecting local food sources.

"Local food commodities such as sago are not being abandoned. On the contrary, we continue to assist farmers so they can develop and provide economic benefits," she said.

She hopes that sago will not only remain an identity of local food, but also contribute to food security and improve community welfare, especially for Indigenous Papuans. ***